Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train: What will happen if earthquake strikes during the journey?

Earthquake during Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train journey

According to the NHSRCL, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor will have a dedicated earthquake detection system to enhance the safety of passengers and railway infrastructure. A total of 28 seismometers will be installed along the high-speed rail (HSR) corridor and in earthquake-prone areas of Maharashtra and Gujarat.

What happens to bullet train after the earthquake is detected?

If an earthquake is detected, the system will automatically shut down the power supply in the affected area. The train will detect the power shutdown and activate its emergency brakes, allowing trains running in the affected section to stop.

This system is being developed (based on Japanese Shinkansen technology) to provide an early warning and quickly initiate protective action before stronger earthquake waves reach the railway infrastructure.

Where will the 28 earthquake detection seismometers be installed?

Of the 28 seismometers, 22 will be installed along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) alignment at traction substations and switching posts.

In Maharashtra, eight will be located around Mumbai, Thane, Virar and Boisar. In Gujarat, 14 will be installed around Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Mahemdabad and Ahmedabad.

The remaining six will be installed as inland seismometers in earthquake-prone areas. Four of these locations – Kheda, Ratnagiri, Latur and Pangri – are in Maharashtra, while two – Adesar and Old Bhuj – are in Gujarat.

Why are additional seismometers being installed away from the railway line?

The six inland seismometers are being installed in areas that have recorded earthquakes of more than 5.5 magnitude near the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train alignment during the past 100 years.

Japanese experts surveyed these areas before the locations were selected. Soil suitability was also assessed through micro-tremor tests.

The additional sensors will help the system detect seismic activity in earthquake-prone areas and support the safety system for the high-speed rail corridor.