13 June,2026 08:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train route passes through challenging terrain. Pic/Special Arrangement
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is set to become the first railway corridor in India to use advanced tunnel hood technology at mountain tunnels, bringing the country in line with global high-speed rail standards, an official statement said.
Officials said tunnel hoods are being installed at the entrances and exits of mountain tunnels along the high-speed rail corridor to improve passenger comfort, reduce noise and enhance operational efficiency.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train route passes through challenging terrain and includes seven mountain tunnels in Maharashtra and one in Gujarat.
Tunnel hoods are being constructed at both ends of these tunnels as part of the project's advanced engineering design.
When a bullet train travelling at very high speed enters a tunnel, it pushes a large volume of air ahead of it, creating pressure waves inside the tunnel.
If these pressure changes are not controlled, they can generate a loud booming sound when the train exits the tunnel. The effect, known as "tunnel boom", can cause noise pollution and discomfort in nearby areas.
Tunnel hoods act as a transition zone between the open air and the enclosed tunnel environment, helping air move more gradually and reducing sudden pressure changes.
A key feature of the tunnel hoods is the inclusion of specially designed pressure-relief openings or vents.
These openings allow some of the compressed air generated by an approaching train to escape gradually into the atmosphere. This helps reduce the strength of pressure waves, improve airflow and minimise noise.
Officials said the system would contribute to smoother and quieter high-speed rail operations.
According to project authorities, tunnel hood technology will:
- Reduce tunnel boom and noise generated by high-speed trains
- Minimise disturbance to nearby residential areas
- Improve passenger comfort during tunnel travel
- Enhance operational safety and efficiency
-Support the smooth movement of trains travelling at speeds exceeding 300 kmph
Tunnel hoods are widely used in countries operating advanced high-speed rail networks, including bullet train systems where trains travel at more than 300 kmph.
Their adoption on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project reflects the use of international engineering standards and modern railway technology aimed at delivering world-class safety, comfort and environmental performance.
Officials said the introduction of tunnel hood technology marks another significant milestone in India's first bullet train project and highlights the country's efforts to adopt cutting-edge infrastructure solutions.
