Key features of this section include an extensive network of viaducts and bridges, with 124 km dedicated to these structures, including 11 steel bridges. The construction also involves seven mountain tunnels, adding to the project's engineering challenges.

As the project progresses, this crucial segment is set to revolutionize travel in the region by overcoming complex engineering hurdles and navigating densely populated areas and protected wildlife sanctuaries, ultimately reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity.

The alignment will intersect several critical transport lines and highways, including Central and Western Railway lines, the Dedicated Freight Corridor, the Mumbai suburban line, and the elevated Mumbai Metro Line 5. It will also cross major highways such as National Highway-48 and the Mumbai-Agra National Highway-3.

The section will feature bridges over four major rivers, including a 460-meter steel bridge over the Ulhas River, the heaviest steel structure in the project at 9,672 metric tons. The longest bridge on the corridor will span 2.32 km over the Vaitarna River.

The alignment will pass through ecologically sensitive areas, including the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) and the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary (TWS). Special measures are being implemented to minimize environmental impact and preserve local wildlife habitats.

Significant progress has been made, with geotechnical investigations nearing completion, mountain tunnel work underway, and approximately 265 open foundations (around 11 km) for pier work completed. Foundation work has also commenced at Boisar and Virar stations, signaling steady advancement in the project's timeline.

(Financial Express)