key points:
- New Suburban Rail Corridor: Mumbai’s suburban railway network gains a new corridor with the Panvel-Karjat line.
- Longest Railway Tunnel: The project features the Wavrely tunnel, the longest in Mumbai’s suburban network, stretching 2.6 kilometers.
- Connecting Navi Mumbai and Raigad: The line connects Navi Mumbai, a planned satellite city, with the Raigad district, enhancing MMR connectivity.
- Unlocking Development Potential: The new line aims to open up previously underserved areas for development, including Panvel, Karjat, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai Airport zone.
- Project Completion Target: Construction is ongoing with a target completion date of December 2025.
- Additional Tunnels and Infrastructure: The project involves two other tunnels (Nadhal and Kirawali) along with bridges, flyovers, and underpasses.
- Modern Amenities: The completed tunnels will feature ballast-less tracks, public refuge areas, a tunnel control system, and advanced lighting and ventilation.
- Surpassing Previous Record: The Wavrely tunnel surpasses the 1.3 km Parsik Tunnel (Thane-Diva) as Mumbai’s longest suburban rail tunnel.
- Safety Focus: Strict safety protocols are being implemented during construction, especially considering the Wavrely tunnel’s proximity to an existing line.
- Reduced Travel Time: The new line is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Mumbai and Karjat via Panvel, benefiting commuters.
Mumbai’s vast suburban railway network is about to expand significantly with the construction of the Panvel-Karjat line, boasting the city’s longest railway tunnel. This ambitious project will connect Navi Mumbai, a planned satellite city, with the Raigad district, further enhancing connectivity within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
A New Corridor for Untapped Areas:
The Panvel-Karjat line marks the emergence of Mumbai’s fifth suburban rail corridor. While the Nerul/Belapur-Kharkopar-Uran route, completed in November 2018, awaits full public access, the Panvel-Karjat line promises to unlock new areas for development.
Wavrely Tunnel: A Feat of Engineering:
The project’s centerpiece is the Wavrely tunnel, stretching an impressive 2.6 kilometers. Construction commenced in February 2024, and by September 6th, the first kilometer milestone was achieved. Currently, blasting operations are underway to carve a path through a hill. This tunnel surpasses the previous record holder, the 1.3 km Parsik Tunnel between Thane and Diva, built over a century ago.
Beyond the Wavrely Tunnel:
The Panvel-Karjat line isn’t just about the longest tunnel. The entire route spans roughly 29.6 kilometers and will include five new stations. Besides the Wavrely tunnel, two additional tunnels – the Nadhal tunnel (219 meters) and the Kirawali tunnel (300 meters) – are also under construction. The entire project encompasses three key tunnels, two rail flyovers, 44 major and minor bridges, 15 road-under bridges, and seven road-over bridges, signifying a substantial infrastructure development.
Safety and Modern Amenities:
Safety remains paramount during construction, especially considering the Wavrely tunnel’s proximity to an existing single-line track. MRVC officials emphasize strict safety protocols during excavation. Additionally, the completed tunnels will boast modern features like ballast-less tracks for smoother rides, designated public refuge areas for emergencies, a sophisticated tunnel control system, and comprehensive lighting and ventilation systems to ensure passenger comfort and safety.
A Catalyst for Development:
The Panvel-Karjat line isn’t just about improving transportation. It’s envisioned as a catalyst for development in the fast-growing regions of Panvel, Karjat, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area. By facilitating efficient movement of people, the new line is expected to spur economic activity and unlock the potential of these areas.
Completion Target:
With construction well underway, the project is targeted for completion by December 2025. The new line will significantly enhance Mumbai’s suburban rail network, improve connectivity to previously underserved areas, and pave the way for future development within the MMR.
