India's Underground Revolution: DMRC's Tunnelling Hub Opens Doors

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) officially inaugurated the Centre of Excellence in Tunnelling and Tunnel Training Centre on February 25, 2025, at the DMRC Academy in Shastri Park, New Delhi. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a premier hub for research, innovation, and industry collaboration, poised to revolutionize tunnelling technology in India.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries from leading academic institutions such as IIT Delhi, IIT BHU, and DTU, along with industry experts. Designed to be a leader in tunnelling research, the Centre offers cutting-edge training programs and develops practical solutions for the industry.

A collaborative initiative between DMRC and IIT BHU Varanasi, the Centre bridges the gap between research and real-world implementation. It focuses on key aspects such as tunnel design, construction techniques, safety protocols, and workforce training. By combining DMRC’s industry expertise with IIT BHU’s academic excellence, the Centre aims to drive technological advancements, enhance safety standards, and equip professionals with the necessary skills to meet the demands of urban infrastructure projects.

Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the Centre features smart classrooms and an augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR) lab to provide immersive learning experiences. One of its standout features is a 25-meter true-scale tunnel model—an exact replica of an operational tunnel—allowing trainees to experience real-world tunnel conditions without disrupting metro operations. This hands-on training environment is an invaluable resource for workforce development in the tunnelling sector.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.