India's Bullet Train: India¡¯s ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has been delayed, with the Shinkansen trains, originally expected by 2026, now likely to begin operations only by 2033. To utilize the high-speed rail corridor in the interim, Vande Bharat trains will start running on the route by 2027, supported by the European Train Control System (ETCS-2). This indigenous solution will allow trains to operate at speeds of up to 280 km/h.?
India¡¯s first bullet train project between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, powered by Japan¡¯s Shinkansen technology, has been delayed again. Originally planned to start by 2026, the full rollout of the Shinkansen trains is now expected only by 2033. Meanwhile, Vande Bharat trains, India¡¯s indigenous high-speed alternative, will start operating on the corridor by 2027, ensuring the infrastructure is not left idle.
To make this possible, the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) has decided to implement the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level-2. This advanced signalling system will enable Vande Bharat trains to run at speeds of up to 280 km/h on the high-speed rail corridor.
The NHSRCL has issued a tender for the design, supply, installation, and maintenance of the ETCS-2 system, which will be completed under a seven-year contract. The new system will temporarily replace the Japanese DS-ATC signalling system originally planned for the corridor. Officials have confirmed that the Japanese system can still be added later when the Shinkansen trains are ready to operate.
The bullet train project, launched in 2017, has faced several challenges:
Due to these hurdles, the Shinkansen trains are now expected to begin limited operations by 2030, with full-scale deployment across the corridor only by 2033.
To ensure the high-speed rail infrastructure is utilized, the Railway Ministry has decided to deploy Vande Bharat trains as an interim solution. These trains are designed and manufactured in India and are already operational on several routes.
With a top speed of 280 km/h, Vande Bharat trains will meet passenger needs on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor until the Shinkansen system is fully operational. Once the bullet trains are introduced, the Vande Bharat trains and the ETCS-2 signalling system will be repurposed for other high-speed rail projects.
Although the delay in the bullet train project is disappointing, officials remain optimistic about the future. The introduction of Vande Bharat trains will provide a reliable high-speed solution for passengers, while the Shinkansen trains are being prepared for Indian conditions.
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