Preparations for the launch of India's first high-speed train (India's First Bullet Train) are actively continuing, and work on constructing both tracks and railway stations is proceeding at a high speed. The government plans to put the first high-speed train into operation on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Rail Route in the first phase by August 15, 2027.
In this regard, the station in Thane has attracted public attention because it will be built at a height of 12 meters above ground level. This 508-kilometer Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail Corridor is being constructed by the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) and will pass through the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, as well as Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Part of the project in Maharashtra begins in the Thane and Palghar districts.
The design of the Thane station was developed with the need to protect mangrove forests in mind. According to an Indian Express report, the concourse level of the Thane station will be located approximately 12 meters above ground level. This approach was specifically planned to minimize the impact on the mangrove swamps in this ecologically sensitive zone.
The design of the Thane station differs from traditional ground-level railway stations. Its entrance group is inspired by the Ulhas River, and the station roof reflects the shape and dynamics of waves, corresponding to the station's location near the river.
NHSRCL has reported that the elevated concourse level was designed with the preservation of mangrove forests and local ecological conditions in mind. As part of this solution, the concourse level in Thane is set at a height of about 12 meters above the natural ground level to ensure the protection of the mangroves.
The Thane station is part of the 135.45-kilometer elevated section of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Rail Corridor in Maharashtra. This section extends from Shilphata Thane to the village of Jaroli, located near the border of Maharashtra and Gujarat, and includes three elevated stations: Thane, Virar, and Boisar.
The construction of the Bullet Train sector in Maharashtra is taking place in an area that is sensitive in terms of urbanism, mountainous landscape, and ecology. The project includes seven mountain tunnels, three of which have already been completed. Work on drainage, waterproofing, and cladding installation continues in these tunnels. Additionally, continuous construction of numerous bridges over rivers is underway. Among them are a 460-meter bridge over the Ulhas River, a 2.32-kilometer bridge over the Vaietarna River, and a 510-meter bridge over the Jagani River.