Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Corridor To Have First-Of-Its-Kind Earthquake Early Warning System
The upcoming Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor (MAHSRC), also known as the bullet train project is set to have the first-of-its-kind 'Early Earthquake Detection System'.
According to the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHRSCL) this advanced system, featuring 28 seismometers aims to bolster the protection of passengers and essential structures against seismic events.
Six seismometers on earthquake hotspots?
Out of the 28 seismometers, six will be installed in areas that are known for seismic activity, including Adesar and Old Bhuj in Gujarat and Khed, Ratnagiri, Latur, and Pangri in Maharashtra.
The hotspots were identified by Japanese experts who conducted a thorough survey in regions near the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail alignment as they had a history of earthquakes exceeding 5.5 magnitudes in the past century.
The remainder will be methodically placed along the train's route.
22 seismometers across bullet train route
In Gujarat, the 14 installation points include Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Mahemdabad, and Ahmedabad. These seismometers will be set up in Traction Substations and Switching Posts that align with the railway's route.
In Maharashtra, eight seismic monitoring devices will be installed in Mumbai, Thane, Virar, and Boisar.
Inspired by Japanese technology
The earthquake early warning system is inspired by Japanese Shinkansen technology.
"This Early Earthquake Detection System, strategically placed along the alignment and in earthquake-prone areas, will ensure swift response by initiating automatic power shutdown and activating emergency brakes. These seismometers showcase innovation and represent proactive steps to safeguard passengers and protect critical infrastructure," Anjum Pervez, Managing Director, NHSRCL, said.
How the early warning system works?
This early detection of earthquakes will prompt an immediate power cut, and triggering emergency brakes. Consequently, trains in the vicinity of the tremor will come to a halt, significantly enhancing passenger safety during such unforeseen events.
Mumbai Ahmedabad Bullet train project
Announced in 2017, the country's first high-speed train corridor between Mumbai and Ahmedabad will see bullet trains running at a speed of 320 kmph.
The bullet train project, which was originally scheduled to become operational in 2023 now has a launch date in 2026.
Earlier this month, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the progress of the project is quite satisfactory.
Out of the total 508-km-long project between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, viaduct has been raised on a length of 272 km. There are eight rivers on the route and bridges have been built over five of them, Vaishnaw said.
The minister reiterated that the deadline to complete the 50-km-long section between Surat and Billimora is 2026 and the work is progressing according to the schedule.
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