Work on India’s ambitious high-speed rail project is progressing rapidly, bringing the country closer to launching its first-ever bullet train service between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
The high-speed train, designed to run at a top speed of 320 kmph, is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two major cities.
508 km journey in just over 2 hours
According to project details, the bullet train will cover the 508-km Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor in approximately 127 minutes — just over two hours — compared to the current travel time of more than seven hours by conventional rail.
The train will reportedly stop at 12 stations along the route, including Mumbai (BKC), Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati.
Operations targeted for 2027
Ashwini Vaishnaw recently stated that the country’s first bullet train is expected to begin operations by August 15, 2027.
The project, launched in 2017, is considered one of India’s biggest infrastructure and transportation initiatives aimed at modernising railway travel.
Project cost crosses Rs 1.25 lakh crore
When initially announced, the estimated cost of the bullet train project stood at around Rs 1.10 lakh crore. The budget was later revised upward to nearly Rs 1.25 lakh crore.
Reports suggest the average expenditure for the project now stands at around Rs 212.44 crore per kilometre.
Major leap for Indian railways
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor is expected to introduce Japanese Shinkansen technology to India and is being viewed as a major leap in the country’s transportation infrastructure.
Officials believe the project will not only improve travel efficiency but also boost economic connectivity, business travel, and regional development along the route.
The project has generated nationwide interest as India prepares to enter the era of high-speed rail travel for the first time.