Pioneering tunnel safety on Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway

As India scales new heights in infrastructure development, the Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway Tunnel stands out as a beacon of modern engineering and safety integration. Stretching through the Sahyadri mountain ranges, this tunnel is part of the Mumbai–Nagpur Super Communication Expressway, aimed at reducing travel time and boosting economic connectivity across Maharashtra.

Amid this monumental project, Supreme Bituchem India Pvt. Ltd. had the opportunity to contribute a critical layer of safety and innovation by executing one of India’s most advanced tunnel protection systems. The company was entrusted with delivering both passive fire protection coating and light-reflective coating systems for the tunnel structure — a first-of-its-kind combination in the Indian infrastructure sector.

Engineering that protects lives

Two of Supreme Bituchem’s signature products played a central role in enhancing the tunnel's long-term resilience.

Supercrate FPC: A high-performance fireproofing coating applied across 1,86,000+ sq. m of tunnel crown area. Formulated to endure extreme heat, Supercrate FPC delays structural damage during fire events, providing valuable time for evacuation and emergency response.

SHELLOXY LR 100: An advanced light-reflective coating that increases brightness within the tunnel by reflecting vehicle headlights and installed lighting. This improves driver visibility, reduces fatigue, and minimizes the need for excessive artificial lighting — contributing to long-term sustainability and safety.

Additionally, the project saw the delivery of 4,400+ metric tons of specialized product — a massive logistical and technical undertaking requiring careful coordination and continuous on-ground support.

Key project highlights

·        First-of-its-kind tunnel application in India

·        4,400+ Metric Tons of material delivered

·        100% stakeholder satisfaction

·        Proudly Made in India

India’s first: Fire safety meets reflective innovation 

“This wasn’t just a supply contract — it was a strategic safety mission,” says Shashank Shukla, Executive Director, Supreme Bituchem India Pvt. Ltd. “We were building systems never applied in India before. It required not only innovation in material science but also training, adaptation, and flawless execution in real-time conditions.”

The Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway Tunnel marks the first-ever combined use of passive fire protection and reflective coatings in an Indian tunnel, setting a benchmark for future expressway and metro projects.

“We’re extremely proud of how our team collaborated with engineers, consultants, and government bodies to ensure that every square meter was protected and performance-tested,” adds Shukla. “This is what it means to engineer for impact.”

Building for the future

With 100% stakeholder satisfaction, the successful execution of this project underscores Supreme Bituchem’s role as a trailblazer in safety-driven infrastructure materials.

As India continues to invest in high-speed corridors, tunnels, and smart highways, Supreme Bituchem remains committed to delivering homegrown innovations that meet global standards — ensuring that progress is always matched by protection.