Surat - The ambitious Surat Metro Rail project is advancing rapidly, with plans for elevated and underground stations spanning a total of 42 km in the city. In the first phase, a 6.47 km underground route is being constructed with the help of Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) operated by GMRC.
Gulmark Agency initiated the use of a TBM machine in September to build a tunnel from Kapodra to Labeshwar Chowk (1.2 km), with another TBM machine deployed for an adjacent track. Gulmark Company is responsible for constructing the tunnel from Kapodra to Surat Railway Station, with the section from Kapodra to Labheshwar Chowk being completed in the first phase. Both TBMs are now operational at the site.
J. Kumar Infra has recently installed a TBM machine in Chowkbazar, and unloading of tunnel boring machine parts for the underground tunnel has begun. Excavation of the tunnel is expected to start in May following the assembly of TBM parts.
Initially slated for an April start, the construction of rings using the TBM machine is likely to begin three days earlier, with tunneling work commencing by May. Although the cutting speed of the TBM is initially slow, the machine is
designed to work more efficiently and quickly over time. J. Kumar Infra will construct the tunnel to accommodate three underground metro stations: Chowkbazar, Maskati, and Surat railway station.
The Surat Metro Rail project aims to improve public transportation and ease traffic congestion within the city. The swift progress in constructing the underground route from the station to Chowkbazar highlights the commitment to providing Surat residents with efficient and modern transport options.
