<p>The uplift and cracking of the tunnel bottom structure will significantly impact the safe construction and long-term operation of the tunnel, especially in the silty mudstone stratum, whose uplift deformation characteristics and mechanism are not clear under the action of groundwater. Taking the Xicheng railway as the research object, this paper systematically analyzes the silty mudstone inverted arch uplift characteristics and mechanisms. The results show that the inverted arch uplift shows obvious deformation characteristics. In the initial stage (within 10&#xa0;days), the deformation is small and has little impact on the structure. With time, the deformation continues to increase, and the deformation rate is fast. The continuous increase of surrounding rock pressure, which exceeds the bearing capacity of the inverted arch structure, leads to the development of inverted arch cracks and uplift formation. Geological factors significantly impact the uplift, and the poor surrounding rock stability will promote the role of subsequent mudstone and groundwater. The results of rock laboratory tests show that the expansive mudstone is affected by clay minerals and has strong water sensitivity. Under the action of groundwater, it shows the characteristics of softening, non-resistance to disintegration, and expansion. The mechanical properties of rock are reduced, the strength of the surrounding rock is reduced, cracks develop, and the volume is increased, aggravating the uplift deformation of the inverted arch. The lithological characteristics, structural characteristics, groundwater, and surrounding rock pressure of silty mudstone and other factors affect and promote each other, which induce the inverted arch uplift under the comprehensive effect, accelerate the development of structural cracks, and cause structural damage. These research results provide a scientific basis for the construction and support design of the silty mudstone tunnel.</p>