Vinod Bhat
New Delhi: A 100-metre-long steel bridge, weighing 1,405 MT, has been launched over NH-3 (Nashik Highway) at Dive-Anjur village in Bhiwandi, Thane district, Maharashtra, for the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project. The bridge is the first steel bridge completed for the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project in Maharashtra.
A key highlight of the bridge is that it was fabricated at a workshop in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, approximately 1,300 km from the launching location. The structure was transported on trailers to Maharashtra and assembled at site before being installed. The achievement demonstrates the growing capability of Indian industry to manufacture, transport and deliver complex infrastructure components for one of the country’s most technologically advanced rail projects.
The fabrication involved precision cutting, drilling, welding and painting, carried out in accordance with the prescribed designs, drawings and specifications. Each batch of steel used in the fabrication was subjected to Ultrasonic Testing (UT). The welders and supervisors involved in the work were certified by International Welding Experts. The project highlights India’s growing indigenous technical and material capabilities and reflects the vision of Make in India in the development of the country’s high-speed rail infrastructure.
At the site, the 100-metre-long bridge was assembled on temporary trestles approximately 17.5 metres above ground level, using 22 skid arrangements and 54,076 Tor-Shear Type High Strength Bolts (TTHSB). A C5 protective painting system and elastomeric bearings have been provided to enhance durability and vibration control.
The completed bridge was subsequently pulled into position using an automatic mechanism comprising two hollow jacks, each with a capacity of 150 MT, along with pre-tensioned Macalloy Bars. To minimise inconvenience to highway commuters, the operation was undertaken during night-time traffic blocks on the National Highway, following meticulous planning and precision execution.
Steel bridges are particularly suited for crossing highways, expressways, major rivers and railway lines, where longer spans are required. The bridge is 100 metres in length, 14 metres in height and 14 metres in width, with the main bridge weighing 1,405 MT. Of the 28 steel bridges planned for the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train corridor, 16 have been completed.
