Mumbai Hyderabad High-Speed Rail Project to Boost Regional Connectivity

Mumbai–Hyderabad High-Speed Rail (MHHSR) project is progressing steadily, aiming to revolutionise travel between Maharashtra and Telangana.

Spanning approximately 711 kilometres, the corridor will connect key cities including Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad, with 10 strategically located stations across both states.

Project Overview

The MHHSR is part of India’s broader high-speed rail initiative, following the Mumbai–Ahmedabad corridor. The project aims to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Hyderabad from the current 15 hours to approximately 3.5 hours, enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration.

Technical Specifications

The proposed bullet train will feature advanced technology to ensure speed, safety, and operational efficiency. Key specifications include:

• Maximum Speed: 350 km/h

• Operational Speed: 320 km/h

• Average Speed: 250 km/h

• Track Gauge: Standard Gauge (1435 mm)

• Signalling System: Digital Signalling with DS-ATC

• Traction: 25 kV AC overhead catenary (OHE)

• Passenger Capacity: Approximately 750 per train

• Safety Features: Equipped with the Urgent Earthquake Detection and Alarm System (UrEDAS) for automatic braking during seismic activity .

Route and Stations

The 711 km-long rail corridor will feature a combination of elevated, underground, and at-grade tracks, connecting urban and semi-urban areas. The 10 proposed stations along the route include:

• Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai

• Navi Mumbai (near the proposed Navi Mumbai International Airport)

• Lonavala

• Pune

• Kurkumb/Daund

• Akluj

• Pandharpur

• Solapur

• Kalaburagi (Gulbarga)

• Zaheerabad

• Hyderabad

The route is designed to follow major expressways, national highways, and greenfield corridors, with a possible origin point near Thane. Additionally, the Mumbai–Hyderabad corridor may connect with the ongoing Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project at Package C3 .

Affordability and Ticket Pricing

While official ticket pricing has not been confirmed, early estimates suggest fares will be approximately 1.5 times the cost of the current first-class AC fare on Indian Railways. As the project progresses, more specific pricing details are expected to be released .

Project Progress and Contractors

The MHHSR project is in its early stages, with several contractors selected for key tasks. Notable contractors include:

• Data Collection and DPR Surveys: Highway Engineering Magnitude Consortium

• Traffic/Ridership Study: PK Engineers

• General Alignment Drawings (GADs): Translink Consultants

• Final Alignment Design and Aerial LiDAR Survey: Monarch Surveyors and Engineering Consultants Ltd

• Utility Mapping and Power Sourcing Surveys: Chetak Engineers

• Social Impact Assessment and Resettlement Plan: Managed by Egis India Consulting Engineers with JS Environics

• Environmental Impact Assessment: Technical bids are under evaluation, with seven bids received .

Impact and Future Outlook

Although the exact cost of the MHHSR project is yet to be finalised, the initiative is expected to provide significant benefits, including reducing travel time, boosting regional economies, and supporting sustainable urbanisation. The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) is actively overseeing the project and continues to provide updates via its dedicated news and construction portals.

As India advances towards this transformative infrastructure project, the Mumbai–Hyderabad High-Speed Rail is poised to become a vital component of the nation’s modern transport network, offering quicker, greener, and more efficient travel for millions of people.

Also read: https://urbanacres.in/rail-infrastructure-contracts-win-legal-support/

Mumbai Hyderabad High-Speed Rail Project to Boost Regional Connectivity