Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has reached an important early milestone on the Indore-Budni New Line Project by completing the first 100 metres of main tunnel excavation from Portal-1 of Tunnel-2. The work has been executed by RVNL’s Project Implementation Unit (PIU), Bhopal, marking steady progress on one of Madhya Pradesh’s strategically significant rail infrastructure projects.
Tunnel-2, with a total length of 8.6 km, is a critical section of the upcoming Indore-Budni rail corridor. The tunnel alignment passes through the villages of Kamlapur, Thalghewaria and Hatnora, located in the Bagli and Kannod tehsils of Dewas district. Once completed, the tunnel will play a central role in improving rail connectivity and operational efficiency along this route.
The initial 100 metres of excavation were completed in approximately two months, despite the presence of highly challenging geological conditions. The tunnel section passes through Rock Class-V strata, characterised by weak, fractured and unstable rock formations. In addition, the alignment runs beneath two active nalas above the tunnel crown, posing risks related to groundwater ingress and surface instability.
Commenting on the achievement, Shri Saleem Ahmad, Chairman and Managing Director, RVNL, said that completing the first phase of excavation under such complex geological conditions reflects the organisation’s strong emphasis on engineering excellence, safety and disciplined execution. He added that RVNL will continue to deploy advanced technologies and best construction practices to ensure timely and high-quality completion of the project.
To address the technical challenges, RVNL adopted advanced tunnelling methodologies, ensured immediate installation of primary support systems, and implemented continuous geotechnical monitoring to manage deformation and safeguard workforce safety. These measures enabled controlled excavation progress while maintaining structural stability in difficult terrain.
The Indore-Budni New Line Project is expected to significantly enhance rail connectivity, capacity augmentation and operational reliability in Madhya Pradesh. Upon completion, the project will support regional economic development and cater to future passenger and freight traffic growth, strengthening the state’s rail infrastructure network.
