Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, May 25: India’s ambitious bullet train project may finally hit the tracks by 2028 — at least in Gujarat. According to documents accessed exclusively by CNN-News18, the country's first high-speed rail service could begin operations between Sabarmati and Vapi in Gujarat by 2028, with full-scale operations on the entire Ahmedabad-Mumbai corridor expected by 2030.
The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) has initiated a comprehensive ridership survey to estimate fare structures and passenger projections. The survey targets 2028 as the starting point for the Gujarat stretch and 2030 as the “base year of operations” for the complete 508-km stretch.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor, once operational, will pass through major cities such as Mumbai (BKC), Thane, Virar, Boisar in Maharashtra, and Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati in Gujarat.
Fast Track in Gujarat, Delay in Maharashtra
While Gujarat has been racing ahead with infrastructure development, progress in Maharashtra was stalled for nearly three years due to delays under the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi government. The Centre has not yet announced an official launch date, but Gujarat’s lead in project execution hints at an earlier rollout in the state.
India to Join Elite High-Speed Club
If completed as scheduled, India will join the league of around 15 countries boasting operational high-speed rail systems. Apart from revolutionizing travel, the project is expected to bring tangible economic benefits, including:
• Drastic reduction in travel time
• Lower vehicle operation costs
• Job creation
• Reduction in pollution and accident rates
• Boost to infrastructure and economic growth
?? Project Progress Report
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently shared key updates:
• 300 km viaduct completed
• 383 km of pier work done
• 401 km of foundation and 326 km of girder casting completed
• 76% excavation at BKC (Mumbai) station — the only underground station on the corridor
Officials believe this mega initiative will also aid in imported fuel substitution, improve safety standards, and significantly enhance commuter experience.
With Gujarat poised to witness India’s first bullet train ride in 2028, the dream of high-speed rail in India is finally gathering steam — one track at a time.