Engineers invent new tunnelling method for rail link in J&K
The engineers responsible for the construction of the Kashmir Rail Link have invented an innovative tunnelling method known as the Himalayan Tunnelling Method for the construction of Tunnel-01 on the Katra-Banihal section of the Kashmir rail link project. This tunnel is designed to be approximately 3.2 km in length and has a tube-like structure. It is situated at the base of the Trikuta hills in the Katra-Reasi section of the project, which is considered one of the most challenging segments of the project due to its steep, mountainous terrain with varying elevations. The Himalayan Tunnelling Method involves the implementation of pre-excavation support measures to tackle the challenging conditions encountered during tunnel excavation. It aims to stabilize the soil and rock structure before the actual excavation process begins. This approach differs significantly from the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), which primarily relies on providing immediate support using lattice girders and shotcrete after the excavation is initiated. The project involves the construction of a total of 27 main tunnels and 8 escape tunnels, in addition to 37 bridges, including 26 major bridges and 11 minor bridges.