40% work completed on Gujarat’s longest railway tunnel; first train likely by 2028

The ambitious Taranga-Ambaji-Abu Road railway project has achieved a major milestone, with nearly 40% of construction completed on Gujarat’s longest railway tunnel. The 1,830-metre tunnel, being built near Dhrovfalo in Poshina taluka, is part of the ₹2,798.16 crore railway line aimed at strengthening connectivity between North Gujarat and Rajasthan.

The tunnel is a key component of the 11.65-kilometre new railway line linking Taranga, Ambaji and Abu Road. Railway officials confirmed that it will be the longest tunnel in the state once completed. Work has progressed rapidly over the past 11.5 months, with construction carried out round the clock using modern machinery. Officials estimate that the remaining 60% of excavation and structural work will take about another year to complete.

Engineers involved in the project said tunnelling poses significant challenges, particularly due to high temperatures and reduced oxygen levels inside the tunnel. To ensure the safety of workers, a heavy-duty ventilation system has been installed to continuously circulate fresh air and expel hot air. A specialised drilling machine, Tamrock, is playing a crucial role in accelerating excavation work.

The overall Taranga-Ambaji-Abu Road railway line is targeted for completion by 2026–27. According to railway sources, trial runs are expected around 2028, when the first train is likely to operate on the new route.

As part of the project, two railway stations Petachhapra (Halt) and Amba Mahuda (Halt) will be developed in Poshina taluka. In addition, infrastructure development in the area will include eight major bridges, one road overbridge, and six underbridges. The project is expected to significantly improve transportation and boost economic and pilgrimage connectivity in the region.