Train traffic was restored more than 24 hours after a segmental launching gantry, used for the construction of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project, accidentally slipped from its position near Ahmedabad. Railway officials confirmed on Tuesday that the affected railway line is now operational again.
The incident occurred around 11 PM on Sunday at the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) construction site in the Geratpur-Vatva section. According to a statement issued by Western Railway, the mishap disrupted the nearby railway line and led to the breakage of overhead electric equipment (OHE), causing a temporary suspension of train services.
As per agency report, a senior official from the Ahmedabad division of Western Railway informed that the first train passed through the affected track at 5:36 AM on Tuesday after the gantry was successfully removed.
Though there were no casualties, the disruption forced the complete cancellation of 38 trains. Additionally, seven trains, including the Gandhinagar-Mumbai Vande Bharat Express, Ahmedabad-Mumbai Shatabdi Express, and Ekta Nagar-Ahmedabad Heritage Special, were partially cancelled due to the incident.
The NHSRCL reported that the gantry removal operation was completed at 11:58 PM on Monday. The entire procedure was carried out with careful planning to ensure the safety of the structure and to prevent further damage to the adjacent railway line.
Railway authorities stated that the damaged track and overhead equipment were fully restored by 4:45 AM on Tuesday. The first freight train passed through at 5:36 AM, followed by the first passenger train at 6:06 AM.
Western Railway confirmed that no passengers or railway staff were injured in the incident. Senior officials, including the General Manager of Western Railway, visited the site to supervise the restoration efforts and ensure the swift resumption of train services.
During the disruption, passengers of affected trains were provided with tea, snacks, and drinking water at various stations through the support of local charitable organizations and NGOs. A dedicated helpline was also set up to assist travelers.
