New Delhi: India is set to achieve a major milestone in its railway modernisation journey, with the country expected to see its first Bullet Train running on tracks on August 15, 2027. The announcement was made by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who said the historic moment would coincide with Independence Day celebrations next year.
Highlighting the significance of the project, Vaishnaw said the launch of the Bullet Train would mark a new era in India’s transport infrastructure. He added that the country is steadily moving towards global standards in speed, safety and passenger comfort, similar to leading high speed rail networks worldwide.
The minister also spoke about the growing popularity of the Vande Bharat Express, stating that its chair car coaches have boosted public confidence in modern train travel. According to him, demand for Vande Bharat services has surged across the country, with requests coming in from almost every region. He noted that the upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper trains would introduce a new overnight travel experience while maintaining the same comfort and safety standards.
India’s first Bullet Train project covers a 508 kilometre corridor between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Of this, 352 kilometres pass through Gujarat and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, while the remaining 156 kilometres lie in Maharashtra. Once operational, the high speed rail line is expected to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to around two hours, significantly enhancing inter city connectivity.
Construction progress on the corridor has reached an advanced stage. More than 85 percent of the route, approximately 465 kilometres, is being built on elevated viaducts, with a major portion already completed. Several river bridges along the alignment have also been finished, with work progressing steadily on the remaining structures.
Key stations along the route are taking shape, including the Surat station, which features a design inspired by the city’s diamond industry. Structural work at the station has been completed, while interior finishing and passenger amenities are currently underway.
With civil works, track bed construction and bridge building advancing rapidly, the Mumbai Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is emerging as a flagship symbol of India’s push towards next generation rail infrastructure.
