In a momentous stride towards India’s groundbreaking bullet train project, the National High-Speed Rail Corporation (NHSRCL) has entrusted Afcons Infrastructure with a staggering Rs 6,397 crore contract. This monumental agreement encompasses the construction of an impressive 21-kilometer-long undersea tunnel, solidifying Afcons’ pivotal role in this pioneering endeavor.
Within the realm of this distinguished tender, Afcons Infrastructure assumes the mantle of constructing a twin-track undersea rail tunnel that spans a remarkable seven kilometers beneath Thane Creek in Maharashtra. To accomplish this monumental feat, Afcons will deploy three cutting-edge tunnel boring machines in conjunction with the innovative New Austrian Tunnelling Method, ensuring the seamless execution of the construction process.
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The technical bids for this prestigious tender were unveiled in February 2023, signifying a significant milestone in the project’s progression. Subsequently, the financial bids were opened in April 2023, heralding the entry of a new phase. It is noteworthy that this particular tender garnered considerable attention, with only two bidders vying for the opportunity to partake in this transformative initiative.
With unwavering determination, the Ministry of Railways endeavors to extend the reach of the bullet train to encompass a larger section by 2027. This ambitious expansion aims to enable high-speed travel at a remarkable maximum velocity of 320 kilometers per hour. Spanning a total length of 508 kilometers and encompassing 12 stations between Mumbai and Sabarmati, this corridor promises to revolutionize transportation in the region.
The tender process has not been devoid of challenges and controversies. Notably, during the initial attempt in 2019-2020, Japanese participation in the project did not materialize, eliciting concerns regarding the project’s cost. Dialogues with Japanese firms at that time highlighted apprehensions surrounding the financial implications, contributing to the subsequent evolution of the tender.
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