Marking a significant milestone in the Mumbai–Ahmedabad bullet train project, the first section of the 21-kilometre tunnel between Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and Thane has been completed and opened, according to an official statement.

Out of the total 21-kilometre stretch, 5 kilometres between Shilphata and Ghansoli in Maharashtra were constructed using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), while the remaining 16 kilometres are being built using Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs). The tunnel includes a 7-kilometre undersea segment beneath Thane Creek.

The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) also announced the successful completion of a 310-kilometre viaduct along the corridor. Track laying, installation of overhead electrical wires, and construction of stations and bridges are progressing rapidly.

The full 508-kilometre Mumbai–Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor consists of 352 kilometres in Gujarat and 156 kilometres in Maharashtra. The project is being implemented using Japanese Shinkansen technology. Upon completion, next-generation E10 Shinkansen trains are expected to run on the route.

The Japanese government has agreed to introduce E10 trains for this project, in alignment with the strategic partnership between Japan and India. The E10 Shinkansen models are set to debut simultaneously in both countries.

The NHSRCL said this flagship project will serve as the foundation for future high-speed rail corridors across India, with several other routes under active evaluation.

In Maharashtra, major structural and tunnelling milestones have been achieved. Work on the three elevated stations in Thane, Virar, and Boisar is progressing at pace, with the first station slabs recently cast for Virar and Boisar.