The upcoming bullet train station in Bilimora, located in Gujarat’s Navsari district, is rapidly inching towards completion. Set to be among the first stops on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor, the Bilimora station stands as a testament to India’s technological ambition and regional development vision.
With structural works such as rail slab and platform-level casting already complete, the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) is now focused on advanced architectural detailing, including roof sheeting and aesthetic installations. As per current projections, this key section between Surat and Bilimora is expected to see trial runs by August 2026, while full commercial operations across the corridor are targeted for 2028. Strategically positioned in Kesli village, the Bilimora bullet train station occupies 38,394 square metres, with a height of 20.5 metres from the ground level. The design of the station draws inspiration from the region’s famed mango orchards, offering a locally resonant yet modern visual identity. According to NHSRCL officials, the concourse level is placed on the ground floor, while the platforms are on the first floor, aligned with global standards for high-speed rail infrastructure. The ongoing roof installation and escalator fit-outs are being synchronised with other system-wide activities to ensure timely readiness. This rapid progress in Gujarat reflects the larger momentum building behind India’s first bullet train initiative, which is set to redefine intercity mobility, economic linkages, and regional accessibility.
The bullet train station at Bilimora is being developed not just as a transit node, but as a civic landmark that is passenger-friendly and environmentally responsive. The station’s amenities are being tailored to ensure accessibility and comfort for all travellers. Features such as business-class lounges, childcare rooms, escalators, and convenience kiosks are integral to the design, reinforcing the shift from conventional rail travel to a premium mobility experience. NHSRCL has also incorporated sustainability features in both construction materials and architectural planning, aligning with India’s climate goals and its commitment to build carbon-conscious public infrastructure. These integrated features place the Bilimora station in a global league of modern transport hubs.
While the station itself is nearing completion, the larger Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project remains under active execution across multiple fronts. Bilimora’s emergence as the first operational node signals a shift in how India’s smaller cities are being reimagined within the context of national infrastructure priorities. The connectivity between Surat and Bilimora is crucial for the pilot operations and testing of the E5 series Shinkansen trains, which will be deployed on the corridor. As engineers work round the clock to meet the 2026 trial run deadline, Bilimora is poised to make history as a regional launchpad for the nation’s entry into the era of high-speed rail travel.
Bullet train construction surges forward at Bilimora station site
