Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project: First steel bridge launched in Maharashtra

The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) has recently erected the first steel bridge for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project in Maharashtra. The 100-meter-long bridge, weighing approximately 1,405 tonnes, was inaugurated over the Nashik Highway, at Dive-Anjur village in Bhiwandi, Thane district.

This structure marks the first of 28 planned steel bridges along the bullet train route, with 16 already completed. The bridges are strategically placed where the train must cross highways, expressways, major rivers, and other railway lines, particularly where longer spans are necessary.

An intriguing aspect of this project is that the steel bridge was manufactured in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, situated around 1,300 km away from its final location in Maharashtra. After fabrication, the components were transported by trailers to Maharashtra and subsequently assembled at the site. The manufacturing process involved precision cutting, drilling, welding, and painting, adhering to the approved designs and specifications.

All steel used in the production underwent Ultrasonic Testing (UT), and the welders and supervisors were certified by international welding experts.

The bridge, which stands at a height of 14 meters and spans 14 meters in width, was erected on temporary trestles at a height of around 17.5 meters above the ground. Assembly utilized 22 skid arrangements and 54,076 Tor-Shear Type High Strength Bolts (TTHSB). To enhance the bridge's durability and vibration control, a C5 protective painting system and elastomeric bearings were also installed.

The final placement of the structure was carried out using an automatic mechanism, comprising two hollow jacks, each capable of supporting 150 tonnes, along with pre-tensioned Macalloy Bars. Night traffic blocks were utilized for the work to minimize disruption to highway commuters.