BEML Moves to Build Indigenous Tunnel Boring Machines, Reduce Dependence on China

This state-owned  Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) is preparing to manufacture tunnel boring machines (TBMs) so that India’s reliance on Chinese imports could be lowered, and the demand from metro, road, and hydro projects could be met.

The defence PSU issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) to attract global firms that are reputable design consultants engaged in the design of TBMs between 6 m to 16.5 m. Sources stated that the company has already initiated talks with certain firms in Austria and Japan. An official said, ‘This is a design consultancy. Once the design is completed, manufacturing will follow.’

Historically, India’s imports of TBMs have always posed a ratio of concern. The major suppliers are Herrenknecht (Germany), Terratec (Australia), Komatsu (Japan), and CRCHI and STEC from the People’s Republic of China. Many of these machines are assembled in China, a dependency that disrupted projects such as the Mumbai Metro during the recent border standoff.

Government backing is central to BEML’s move. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) held a meeting with BEML in June 2025, where the PSU presented its TBM manufacturing plan. Officials said the company is likely to begin with a 6.5-metre TBM in collaboration with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).

India’s metro network, now the third largest globally at 1,013 km across 23 cities, is driving much of the demand. The Centre has sharply increased the budget for metro projects to ₹34,807 crore in FY26—over six times higher than in 2013-14.

The selected consultant will design TBMs tailored for Indian conditions, considering soil geology, groundwater pressure, tunnel geometry, and urban constraints. Machines will be designed to minimise ground settlement, noise, and vibration, while offering tight turning radii for dense city environments. BEML has assured nationwide after-sales service support.

This is not BEML’s first attempt in the sector. In 2009, it tied up with France’s NFM Technologies to produce TBMs, but the venture collapsed in 2018 after NFM was acquired by a German firm that shifted focus to Europe.

BEML currently runs four factories in Bengaluru, KGF, Mysuru, and Palakkad, operating in mining & construction, defence & aerospace, and rail & metro segments.