India's First Bullet Train Project: 300 km Viaduct Completed, Trial Run Expected Between Surat-Bilimora in 2026
Bullet Train: India's first bullet train project is progressing rapidly. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video stating that a 300-kilometer-long viaduct has been completed under the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project. This marks another significant achievement in this ambitious project. A trial run of the bullet train is now anticipated next year.
Let's understand this news in detail—
What is the current status of the bullet train project?
Construction of the 300-kilometer viaduct for the bullet train line between Mumbai and Ahmedabad is complete. 257.4 kilometers of this was constructed using full-span launching technology. This technology increased the work speed by up to 10 times, enabling faster project completion.
During this phase, numerous bridges over rivers, steel and PSC bridges, and station buildings were also constructed. So far, 383 kilometers of piers, 401 kilometers of foundation, and 326 kilometers of girder casting have been completed in this project.
When will the trial run begin, and when will the bullet train be operational?
According to railway officials and experts, the trial run of the bullet train is likely to commence next year. A trial run on certain routes could be seen in 2026.
If everything proceeds as planned, full commercial service is expected to begin by 2029. This means that travel between Mumbai and Ahmedabad by bullet train will be possible from 2029.
Essential Bullet Train Technology Developed in India
A noteworthy aspect of this project is that most of the technology and resources used are being manufactured in India. Whether it's launching gantries, bridge gantries, or girder transporters—all are made in India. This represents a significant step towards India's self-reliance.
Using full-span technology, each span girder weighs approximately 970 tons. Additionally, over 300,000 noise barriers have been installed on either side of the viaduct to mitigate noise pollution from the high-speed train.
Bullet Train Route
Several depots are being built in Maharashtra and Gujarat for the bullet train. According to recent updates, Shinkansen train coaches from Japan may arrive in India early next year. A bullet train run between Surat and Bilimora could be operational by August 2026.
India's first bullet train station in Surat is nearing completion. Work is also progressing rapidly on the remaining stations. A total of 12 stations are planned on this route, many located in major cities of Gujarat and Maharashtra.
Significance of the Bullet Train Project for India
- The bullet train is not merely a new train; it's a project elevating India's infrastructure to new heights.
- It is making India self-reliant in high-speed train technology.
- The project showcases India's enhanced engineering capabilities.
- It is creating employment opportunities for lakhs of people.
- Passengers will experience safer and faster travel.
Railway Minister's Update and Future Plans
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw regularly shares updates on the project. He recently released a video announcing the completion of the 300-kilometer viaduct. According to him, further major updates will be forthcoming in the coming months.
The Railway Minister also stated that work is being undertaken on a war footing to realize the dream of a bullet train for Indians as soon as possible.
