India’s Homegrown Bullet Trains to Replace Japanese Models
India’s ambitious high-speed rail project on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor has taken a significant turn as the Railway Ministry explores the possibility of introducing indigenously built bullet trains in light of delays surrounding the deal for Japanese Shinkansen trains. The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), which oversees the project, is now focusing on advanced versions of the Vande Bharat series as a viable alternative to meet the growing demand for swift connectivity between the two cities.
Originally, the Shinkansen bullet trains, known for their superior speed and technology, were slated to begin operations in the Surat-Bilimora section by 2026-2027, with full-scale deployment on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor anticipated by 2030. However, due to delays in finalising the procurement process, this timeline has now been revised, and Shinkansen trains are now expected to be operational only by 2033. In light of these delays, NHSRCL has proactively turned towards developing India’s own high-speed trains. These indigenously developed trains, set to reach speeds of up to 280 km/h, will be manufactured by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), a state-owned entity with a strong track record in heavy machinery and rail equipment production.
BEML, which had previously rolled out a sleeper version of the Vande Bharat trains, is expected to deliver a cost-effective yet technologically advanced solution for India’s high-speed rail network. The decision to opt for the indigenous train solution also reflects a strategic shift in signalling systems. NHSRCL has floated tenders for the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level-2, which will replace the Japanese DS-ATC system initially designed for Shinkansen trains. This shift will facilitate the smooth integration of India’s own bullet trains and ensure interoperability once the Japanese trains arrive. Despite the setbacks, significant progress is being made on the ground. Construction work, including tunnelling, rail over-bridges, and track laying, is moving ahead rapidly. This momentum signals the government’s commitment to delivering on one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, with revised timelines aiming for partial operations by 2030. India’s push for indigenously built high-speed trains aligns with the broader goal of self-reliance in defence and manufacturing sectors, while also ensuring that the country’s rail network modernises at a faster pace.
