Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project to Fully Open by 2029: Vaishnaw
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlights progress, safety features, and economic impact of India’s first bullet train project
Surat, Sept 27: India’s ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project is progressing rapidly, with the first 50-km section between Surat and Bilimora slated to open by 2027, and the entire Mumbai-Ahmedabad stretch expected to be operational by 2029, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Saturday.
Once fully operational, the bullet train will cover the Mumbai-Ahmedabad distance in just two hours and seven minutes. Vaishnaw, during his inspection of the under-construction Surat bullet train station, reviewed track installations and the first turnout setup, describing the overall progress as “very good.”
“The first 50-km section between Surat and Bilimora will open by 2027. By 2028, the Thane-Ahmedabad section will be commissioned, and by 2029, the entire Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor will be operational,” Vaishnaw told reporters.
The railway minister added that the main line is designed for speeds up to 320 kmph, while the loop line will run at 80 kmph. “Modern technologies are being used to ensure safe and efficient movement of trains. Vibration absorption mechanisms and special safety features have been installed to maintain stability even during strong winds or earthquakes,” he said.
Vaishnaw also highlighted technological advancements at the Surat station, including composite sleepers, roller bearings, and innovative track turnouts. “The first turnout has been installed, marking a key milestone. Turnouts allow tracks to join or separate, and the technologies used here are entirely new to India,” he added.
The minister emphasized the economic benefits of the project, predicting that it will boost growth across all major cities along the corridor, similar to the impact seen in Japan following the introduction of its Shinkansen bullet train.
He also announced plans for additional bullet train corridors in the north, east, and south, complementing the western Mumbai-Ahmedabad line.
This landmark project marks a major step toward modernizing India’s rail infrastructure while connecting major urban hubs with ultra-fast, safe, and technologically advanced transportation.
