Milestone Achieved: Another breakthrough in Panvel-Karjat railway project’s tunnel construction

Last week marked another significant milestone in the construction of the Panvel-Karjat railway project, with the completion of one more breakthrough on two of the three tunnels. With this progress, the new local train line connecting Panvel to Karjat is steadily nearing completion, bringing it closer to becoming operational.

Under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project 3 (MUTP-3) by MRVC, the Panvel-Karjat railway project is undergoing development. Three tunnels, including Tunnel-1 (Nadhal Tunnel) spanning 219m, Tunnel-2 (Wavrely Tunnel) stretching 2,625m, and Tunnel-3 (Kirawali Tunnel) of 320m, are integral parts of this transformative initiative.

The new double-line corridor aims to enhance connectivity between Mumbai and Karjat via Panvel, offering a vital transportation link to the fast-developing regions of Panvel, Karjat, and NAINA (Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area). The completion of these tunnels is crucial for the efficient operation of local train services along this corridor.

Despite facing numerous challenges, particularly during the excavation process, significant progress has been made. Tunnel-1 achieved a breakthrough on May 10, 2023, while work on Tunnel-3 (Kirawali Tunnel) commenced on September 29, 2023, with a breakthrough accomplished last week on March 30, 2024. Work on laying down a ballastless track is currently underway, with plans to complete concrete lining and track installation by the year-end.

The construction of Tunnel-2 (Wavrely Tunnel), the longest among all, spanning 2,625m, has made substantial headway, with excavation completed for 2,425m as of April 2. Despite encountering Class-3 rocks and logistical challenges due to proximity to residential and commercial establishments, the project remains on track for completion.