TUNNELLING work on Bhopal Metro’s first underground corridor between the railway station and Pul Patra has entered its final phase. Around 350 metres of the 500-metre stretch has been completed, with the remaining work targeted for completion by the first week of November. Two TBMs dig simultaneously: Two tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are working continuously on the stretch. One has advanced about 350 metres, while the other has reached around 300 metres. Simultaneous tunnelling has increased the pace of construction. Work delayed from May: The section was earlier scheduled for completion by the end of May.

 

Slow tunnelling in the initial phase, technical challenges and intermittent stoppages delayed the work.Ground conditions have also required changes in TBM speed during excavation. Key locations crossed safely: The two machines have crossed several sensitive stretches, including areas near Nadra Bus Stand and buildings such as Hotel Redsea Plaza and Rajshree. Officials said tunnelling is progressing safely while necessary measures are being taken to maintain underground stability. More underground work proposed:The railway stationPul Patra stretch is an important part of the underground corridor. Another underground section of about 3.39 km is proposed between Pul Patra and Sindhi Colony.