Tackling Major Challenges of Tunnel Construction on the Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line Project:

Mootv Odisha / Bhubaneswar : 23.08.2024

• 07 Tunnels being constructed within 75 KMs of the total project.
• All Tunnels falling between Daspalla and Purunakatak.
• 03 Tunnels between Adhenigarh & Charichhak out of 04 in Boudh District.
• Longest Tunnel length is 4.885 KMs near Adhenigarh including 700 meter escape Tunnel ensuring Safety.
• 03 Tunnels in Nayagarh District between Daspalla and Banigochha including 02 between Daspalla and Buguda.
• Tunnel Breakthrough work successfully completed at 04 Tunnels.
• Breakthrough of Tunnel Number 1 done on 21st August 2024.

The Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line Project, a pivotal infrastructure initiative under Indian Railways, is progressing with remarkable speed despite facing significant challenges, especially in the construction of tunnels. These tunnels, which form a critical part of the project, present some of the most daunting engineering challenges ever encountered in railway construction.

This Project, a critical public-centric initiative of Indian Railways, continues to advance, achieving significant milestones despite the formidable challenges posed by the construction of tunnels in rugged terrain. Spanning a total length of 301 kilometers, this project is vital for enhancing connectivity in remote regions, and it is under constant scrutiny from the Ministry of Railways to ensure timely completion.

Tunnel Construction: The Heart of the Project’s Challenges

As the project traverses through the rugged and forested terrains between Daspalla and Purunakatak, the construction of seven tunnels (a total of 12.76KMs) within 75-kilometer stretch has emerged as the most complex and technically demanding aspect of this entire endeavor. These tunnels are not just about creating passages through mountains; they represent the overcoming of extraordinary obstacles posed by nature and geography. Breakthrough of 1.795KMs long Tunnel (Number 7) was done on 20th August 2024. On very next day, i.e. on 21st August 2024, another breakthrough of tunnel (Tunnel Number-1) was conducted successfully.

Key Tunnel Sections:

√ Seven Tunnels are under construction, all located between Daspalla and Purunakatak.

√ Four Major Tunnels in the Boudh District between Adhenigarh and Purunakatak, including the project’s longest tunnel, which spans 4.185 kilometers and features a 700-meter escape tunnel for safety.

√ Three Tunnels in Nayagarh District, with two located between Daspalla and Buguda.

√ Tunnel Breakthrough Work has been successfully completed in 04 tunnels, marking a major progress milestone.

The Major Challenges in Tunnel Construction and Overcoming Technical and Environmental Challenges are …

1. Complex Geological Conditions

The geological complexity of the region, with varying soil densities and rock formations, has posed significant difficulties in ensuring tunnel stability and safety. Advanced tunneling techniques have been employed to manage these diverse conditions, requiring meticulous planning and execution.

2. Environmental Sensitivity and Conservation Efforts

The tunnels pass through environmentally sensitive areas, including wildlife sanctuaries. The project team has had to balance engineering needs with ecological conservation, constructing viaducts and adopting measures to minimize the impact on local wildlife and their habitats.

3. Engineering Precision in Curved Tunnels

Of the seven tunnels, five tunnels are with curves, ranging from 2.5 to 3 degrees. This demands an exceptional level of precision in engineering, as curved tunnels present unique challenges in terms of alignment and structural integrity.

4. Simultaneous Construction from Both Ends

To expedite the project, tunnel construction is being conducted simultaneously from both ends. This approach is crucial for adhering to the tight timelines but requires meticulous coordination and resource management.

Despite these challenges, the project has achieved significant milestones, with tunnel breakthroughs completed in four of the seven tunnels. These achievements are a testament to the dedication and expertise of the engineering teams working on the project.

Strategic Construction Approach for Timely Completion

To accelerate progress, the construction of the tunnels is being carried out simultaneously from both ends. This dual-front approach is crucial for meeting the ambitious timelines set for the project.

The Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line, stretching 301 kilometers, is crucial for improving connectivity in remote regions. Of the total length, 199 kilometers have been completed, including 105.8 kilometers from Khurda Road to Daspalla and 93 kilometers from Balangir to Boudh. The remaining segment from Boudh to Purunakatak is on track for completion within the next few months.

The successful construction of these tunnels will not only mark a major milestone for the Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line Project but also underscore Indian Railways’ capability to overcome unprecedented engineering challenges and delivering critical infrastructure to remote areas. The completion of the tunnel works will mark a significant achievement in the project, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and economic development in the region.