The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) in India has marked a significant milestone in the Kanpur Metro project with the launch of the ‘Gomati’ tunnel boring machine (TBM).
The machine was launched from the Rawatpur shaft and will construct the ‘downline’ tunnel to Double Pulia as part of the underground section of Corridor-2.
Corridor-2 spans approximately 8.6km, including 4.1km of underground tunnelling and 4.5km of elevated viaduct. It connects CSA University to Barra-8, significantly enhancing east–west connectivity in the city.
The newly launched Gomati TBM will initially construct a 780m tunnel from Rawatpur to Kakadeo Station.
After reaching Kakadeo, the TBM will be moved to the opposite side of the station using the dragging method and will continue with a further 1020m tunnel up to Double Pulia.
Gomati is one of three TBMs deployed in the underground segment of the corridor, alongside ‘Saraswati’ and ‘Parvati’. The Parvati TBM was launched earlier on 29 March to carry out tunnelling work on the ‘up-line’. Tunnelling commenced on the Rawatpur–Company Bagh Chauraha stretch and has since expanded to cover the larger section toward Double Pulia.
UPMRC Managing Director Sushil Kumar said the corridor is progressing rapidly.
“With the launch of the Gomati TBM on the downline from Rawatpur to Double Pulia, another milestone has been achieved,” he said.
“TBMs allow safe tunnelling even in densely populated urban areas. Once completed, Corridor-2 will significantly improve connectivity for people on both sides of the railway line.”
The use of tunnel boring machines in this project reflects a commitment to trenchless technology that helps to ensure minimal surface disruption, enhanced safety, and consistent progress in urban transit development.
This launch underlines the broader push for sustainable and modern urban infrastructure across India.
Do you have news for the international trenchless industry? Contact journalist Gerald Lynch at gerald.lynch@primecreative.com.au
