Tunnelling Association of India (TAI)

Given the huge potential for tunnelling in India, I would like to suggest the setting up of National Tunnelling Centre for faster development of tunnels and a TBM factory backed by strong support and services, since currently all TBMs are being imported.
RK Dhiman - President, Tunnelling Association of India (TAI)

As one of the fastest-growing markets for tunnel construction, how do you assess India’s expertise and technical know-how in tunnel construction?

India has significantly advanced in tunnel construction expertise over the past decade, driven by a booming infrastructure sector. The country has completed complex projects like the Atal Tunnel, Sela, Z-Morh, and the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, all of which showcase India’s construction industry’s capability to execute ambitious designs in challenging environments.

There are a number of rail and highway tunnels under construction. With skilled engineers, evolving project management techniques, and adoption of cutting-edge technology, India is closing the gap with international standards. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of R&D investments and adoption of advanced mechanized tunnelling methods. Building partnerships with global firms and integrating skill development programs can further enhance India’s standing in this field.

As a former Additional Director General of Border Roads Organisation, and your over 36 years of experience in executing tunnelling and bridge projects in hilly areas, please elaborate on how can one address the unique challenges present in these regions?

I have been involved in projects in challenging hilly areas. I was successful in developing a formula for scour around bridge piers in ‘bouldery beds’ based on data collected from existing bridges, and was instrumental in cost and optimisation in the projects using new technologies.

From my vast experiences, I have learnt that tunnelling in hilly areas poses unique challenges like an unpredictable geology, landslides, and water ingress issues. Mountainous terrains also restrict the manoeuvrability of heavy equipment and increase logistical difficulties. We have therefore implemented advanced geological investigation techniques and real-time monitoring systems for a better understanding of the ground conditions.

Slope stabilization, drainage management, and a robust support system are crucial in mitigating risks. We need to allot more time and cost to pre-investigation to avoid surprises during construction. Risk assessment should also be pre-examined based on the data collected, and all safety precautions should be followed as per IRC SP 91 2019.

Bridges also pose a challenge, especially in bouldery bed strata and in deep gorgers in hilly areas. Completion of bridge projects get delayed due to delay in completion of their foundation, which is based on the data collected of existing bridges by an expert in the field. To address this, a formula for scour assessment in bouldery beds was finalised; it was based on data collected of existing bridges on bouldery beds. It was published as paper no. 508 under the heading “Bouldery bed scour proposed formula” in the Indian Road Congress (IRC) journal. A model study was also done by IIT Roorkee for validation of the formula. In fact, scour assessment of bridges is an important issue in bridges.

What best practices and innovations do you advocate to enhance safety in tunnelling operations?

Safety during construction is a major concern. We advocate for advanced safety protocols, including remote monitoring systems, predictive modelling, and real-time ventilation control. Advanced training for workers, especially safety in confined spaces, is vital. Innovations such as IoT-based sensors to monitor structural integrity, automated early-warning systems, and worker-tracking devices have been crucial in reducing incidents.

Encouraging a safety-first culture and ensuring adherence to international safety standards is a top priority. We educate and train every worker in the tunnel industry on safety aspects so that they can handle any untoward incident. We ensure that tunnel safety protocols should be implemented and strictly followed and no lapses would be accepted.

How effectively are technologies like AI, Robotics, and IoT being utilized in the tunnelling industry?

The tunnelling industry is increasingly leveraging AI, robotics, and IoT to improve efficiency, safety, and accuracy. AI-powered predictive maintenance, for instance, has helped reduce downtimes by anticipating equipment failures. IoT sensors in tunnels enable continuous environmental and structural monitoring, alerting operators to potential hazards. Robotics has been pivotal, especially in remote inspection tasks and operations in high-risk zones, where human presence may be dangerous. Technologies like automated tunnel boring machines (TBMs) with AI capabilities enable faster progress while reducing manual intervention. These technologies enhance productivity and set new safety benchmarks.

How can tunnelling projects be made more sustainable and environmentally responsible to minimize damage to local fauna and flora?

Sustainability in tunnelling involves careful planning, minimizing ecological impact, and adopting eco-friendly construction practices. Environmental assessments prior to construction are essential, as is integrating biodiversity conservation strategies.

Using biodegradable chemicals, energy-efficient machinery, and recycling excavation material can help reduce the carbon footprint. Another approach is designing tunnels to avoid sensitive habitats and implementing afforestation projects, post-construction. Moreover, deploying noise and dust control measures will protect local fauna. Sustainable tunnelling practices align with both environmental goals and community interests, balancing development with ecological responsibility.

How can collaboration between government, private industry, and the academia help in advancing tunnel construction techniques and best practices, and how can TAI facilitate this?

Governmental support can provide the regulatory framework and funding incentives, while private industry brings innovation and practical experience. Academia contributes towards research, offering insights into new methodologies and materials.

TAI acts as a facilitator by organizing knowledge-sharing events, establishing technical committees, and promoting industry-academic partnerships. By encoura- ging a collaborative environment, TAI fosters the growth of indigenous technology, supports policy development, and ensures that the Indian tunnelling industry remains globally competitive.

Through regular conferences, workshops, and technical seminars, TAI gathers industry feedback on pressing issues, which are then presented to government bodies/ policymakers. This feedback has led to incremental improvements in policies and regulations over time. TAI’s advocacy efforts have promoted the adoption of safer practices and support for technological innovation.

Recently, the governing council of TAI formed three committees to document experience and prepare future guidelines. I would request all engineers to share their experiences for better implementation of technology. Cost optimisation is a main thrust area, and it will also increase the pace of tunnel construction. TAI has recently started registration of expert engineers for tackling a Silkyara like incidence in the country. Experts can register on TAI website.www.tai.org.in.

What government support would you like to suggest for the tunnelling industry of India?

Considering the large potential for tunnel work ahead, the National Tunnelling Centre should be established for the overall development of tunnels, addressing all related issues in one place. A proposal for the installation of a TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) factory should be considered to accelerate the development of tunnels in the country. This initiative will also strengthen the 'Make in India' efforts, as currently, all TBMs are being imported.

What topics are being discussed at the conference on ‘Innovative Tunnelling Solutions for Sustainable Infrastructure’ being held alongside bauma CONEXPO INDIA in Greater Noida?

Innovative mechanization and technology are crucial in overcoming the unique challenges posed by tunnel projects, including difficult terrains and safety concerns. Standardization across projects foster higher safety and quality benchmarks, promoting consistency and reliability in the industry.

The conference is therefore holding insightful discussions on modern tunnelling techniques, project financing, and taking a forward-looking approach to solutions for addressing environmental challenges.

Leading industry experts are giving insights on geological conditions, cost efficiency, safety practices, and integration of AI. They are sharing best practices across sectors like metro, mining, railways, hydro, and road construction. Discussions are being held on standardization, automation, and mechanization in tunnelling, with an emphasis on advanced TBMs, automated drilling systems, and monitoring of technologies to streamline operations and improve efficiency.