India’s Bullet Train Project Delayed as TBMs Remain Stuck in China

India’s Bullet Train project is facing potential delays because three German-made tunnel boring machines remain stuck at a Chinese port, affecting the critical undersea segment near Thane Creek. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

India’s Bullet Train Tunnel Section at Risk Over TBM Delays

The tunnel boring machines, built by Herrenknecht in Guangzhou, were intended for a 21-kilometer underground route from BKC to Shilphata. One is the largest TBM ever built for India.

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Although two machines were scheduled to arrive by October 2024, none have left port. Chinese authorities have yet to provide clearance, and no reason for the delay has been disclosed officially.

India’s Railway Ministry has referred the matter to the Ministry of External Affairs, seeking diplomatic resolution. These machines are vital not only for tunneling but for supporting civil works already underway.

The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd (NHSRCL), executing the $12.9 billion project, still maintains its original schedule. But continued delays could compromise the pace of construction, especially beneath Thane Creek.

India’s Bullet Train Timeline Under Pressure as Equipment Stalls

Afcons Infrastructure Ltd, responsible for the $767 million Package C-2 contract, continues surface preparation. The firm is building shafts at BKC, Vikhroli, Sawli, and Ghansoli to deploy the machines.

The tunnel will cut through complex terrains and dip 114 meters below Parsik Hill. It must cross wetlands, urban settlements, and a major water body, making this segment the most technically demanding.

Each TBM features mixshield technology to operate in varied geological conditions. Their delay not only halts tunnel boring but also stalls installation of supporting infrastructure and delivery of other key parts.

Following the 2020 Galwan conflict, India tightened its oversight on Chinese imports. Several infrastructure deals involving Chinese firms were cancelled or frozen, and authorities shifted toward sourcing machines locally or from allies.

Officials close to the matter confirmed that NHSRCL, Afcons, and Herrenknecht are coordinating efforts. Yet, until clearance is granted, the high-speed corridor’s most advanced machinery remains idle overseas.

Despite surface work continuing, pressure is building to get the tunnel boring machines moving. Without them, India’s Bullet Train may soon fall behind its targeted timeline.

Source, photo: m.economictimes.com

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