Maharashtra's First Steel Bridge for Bullet Train Completed in Bhiwandi
A significant milestone for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, the first steel bridge has been launched in Bhiwandi.
The 100-meter steel bridge weighs 1,405 MT and is the first completed for the high-speed rail corridor in Maharashtra.
Fabricated in Tamil Nadu, the bridge was transported and assembled on-site using advanced techniques.
This bridge is part of a larger plan, with 28 steel bridges planned for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor, 16 of which are now completed.
In a major development for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, the first steel bridge in Maharashtra has been successfully launched over NH-3 in Dive-Anjur village, Bhiwandi. This 100-meter-long structure, weighing 1,405 metric tons, marks a significant step forward in the construction of the high-speed rail corridor.
The bridge was assembled on temporary trestles elevated approximately 17.5 meters above ground level. Its installation involved the use of 22 skid arrangements and 54,076 Tor-Shear Type High Strength Bolts (TTHSB). The bridge's dimensions include a width of 14 meters and a height of 14 meters, showcasing engineering prowess in its design and construction.
Fabrication of the bridge took place in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, nearly 1,300 kilometers away from its installation site. The process included cutting, drilling, welding, and painting, adhering to strict approved designs and specifications. Each batch of steel underwent Ultrasonic Testing to ensure quality, while all welders and supervisors were certified by International Welding Experts, ensuring high standards were maintained throughout the project.
To enhance durability and manage vibrations, a C5 protective coating was applied to the bridge, along with elastomeric bearings. The final installation was executed at night to minimize disruption to highway traffic, utilizing an automated system with two hollow jacks rated for 150 MT, supported by pre-tensioned Macalloy Bars. This strategic approach reflects a commitment to efficient construction practices while considering public convenience.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor is set to feature a total of 28 steel bridges, with this being the 16th completed. These structures are essential for spanning longer distances across highways, expressways, major rivers, and railway lines, ensuring the smooth operation of the high-speed rail network. As construction progresses, the completion of these bridges will play a crucial role in the overall success of the bullet train project.
