What does India need to take its tunnelling to the next level?
ROADS & HIGHWAYS

What does India need to take its tunnelling to the next level?

One thing is clear. The past decade or so has seen a drastic change in the machinery used for tunnelling construction in India. “Whereas conventional blasting methods used to prevail, which made for very slow progress, now the most prevalent method in the Himalayan region is the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM),which helps adjust to site conditions and has significantly sped up the implementation of projects,” observes Ranvir Singh, Manager (Projects)and Contracts Management Expert (Tunnelling), PEMS Engineering Consultants. “Cost comparisons of the two prominent tunnel construction methods nowadays and geological conditions, particularly in the Himalayan region, favour the NATM overtunnel boring machines (TBMs).”

“TBMs in general haven’tbeen successful in Himalayan geology owing to heterogeneous rock strata,” agrees Col Deepak Patil, General Manager (Project), Silkyara Tunnel, National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation. “For tunnelling in the Himalayan region, India mostly uses machinesthat can perform activities associated with the NATM, such asboomers/jumbos, shotcreting, various kinds of grouting, strengtheningthe ground, rather than TBMs.”

In cities where metro projects are being implemented, TBMs are being extensively used. Going forward, to take tunnelling to the next level, we must think of tunnelling methods beyond TBMs, NATM and conventional methods, based on rock mechanics and properties, advises Dr B C Mandal, Executive Director (Technical), BPC Consultant India.

Improving techniques

To ensure that proper methods and machinery are engaged, we need geological engineers to lead tunnelling projects instead of the civil engineers who are currently at the forefront of tunnelling projects, says Dr Mandal.

To read the full version, CLICK HERE.

One thing is clear. The past decade or so has seen a drastic change in the machinery used for tunnelling construction in India. “Whereas conventional blasting methods used to prevail, which made for very slow progress, now the most prevalent method in the Himalayan region is the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM),which helps adjust to site conditions and has significantly sped up the implementation of projects,” observes Ranvir Singh, Manager (Projects)and Contracts Management Expert (Tunnelling), PEMS Engineering Consultants. “Cost comparisons of the two prominent tunnel construction methods nowadays and geological conditions, particularly in the Himalayan region, favour the NATM overtunnel boring machines (TBMs).” “TBMs in general haven’tbeen successful in Himalayan geology owing to heterogeneous rock strata,” agrees Col Deepak Patil, General Manager (Project), Silkyara Tunnel, National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation. “For tunnelling in the Himalayan region, India mostly uses machinesthat can perform activities associated with the NATM, such asboomers/jumbos, shotcreting, various kinds of grouting, strengtheningthe ground, rather than TBMs.” In cities where metro projects are being implemented, TBMs are being extensively used. Going forward, to take tunnelling to the next level, we must think of tunnelling methods beyond TBMs, NATM and conventional methods, based on rock mechanics and properties, advises Dr B C Mandal, Executive Director (Technical), BPC Consultant India. Improving techniques To ensure that proper methods and machinery are engaged, we need geological engineers to lead tunnelling projects instead of the civil engineers who are currently at the forefront of tunnelling projects, says Dr Mandal. To read the full version, CLICK HERE.

Next Story
Resources

Ajmera Realty launches tree drive on Environment Day

Ajmera Realty & Infra India marked World Environment Day with a large-scale tree plantation initiative—Plant-with-Purpose—across its projects in Mumbai and Bangalore. The drive was inaugurated at Ajmera Manhattan and Ajmera Greenfinity in Wadala, with senior company officials and residents in attendance. The campaign encourages residents to embrace eco-conscious, self-reliant lifestyles by growing useful plants and trees within their communities. Horticulture expert Devendra Bhekar guided residents on creating and maintaining green spaces. Ajmera Realty planted over 500 trees..

Next Story
Resources

Twaron®-reinforced tyre powers Brunel’s solar race car

Teijin Aramid’s Twaron® with circular content will debut in Bridgestone’s race tyres for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, supporting the Brunel Solar Team’s Nuna 13 car. This marks the first use of the recycled-content aramid in a high-performance race tyre. The Twaron®-reinforced belts help enhance durability, reduce rolling resistance, and maintain lightweight strength—critical for the 3,000-km solar race across Australia. Bridgestone combines this with ENLITENTM tech and other recycled inputs to maximise environmental and performance outcomes. Teijin Aramid, a..

Next Story
Building Material

Kamdhenu Paints launches new wood coating range

Kamdhenu Paints has launched a comprehensive premium wood coating range designed for both interior and exterior applications. The collection includes high-performance solutions like Kamwood 2K PU for a rich matt or high-gloss finish, Kamwood 1K PU for clarity and stain protection, and the Kamwood Melamyne system for a smooth, durable finish. Also featured are Kamwood Wood Stains, which enhance wood grains with vibrant colour, and NC Sanding Sealer for high-build grain filling. The range is supported by Kamwood Thinners for ease of application and optimal finish. Saurabh Agarwal, MD, ..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?