Bullet Train: Indian Railways is swiftly embracing modern technology, which includes the homegrown ‘Kavach’ safety system, semi-high-speed trains such as the Vande Bharat, AI-driven predictive maintenance, and track enhancements for speeds reaching 160 km/h. Additionally, India is preparing to launch bullet trains in the near future. The B28 represents India’s own bullet train, with construction already in progress at BEML’s Rail Coach Factory located in Bengaluru.
In October 2024, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai awarded BEML the task of designing, constructing, and launching two high-speed trainsets. Following the completion of the B28 project, the Ministry of Railways intends to develop a new high-speed bullet train, designated as the B35.
Specifications and capabilities of B28 and B35 bullet trains
The B28 bullet train is engineered for a top speed of 280 km/h, although it will typically operate at 250 km/h. The Railways aim to have the first B28 train ready by March 2027. Subsequently, the focus will shift to the B35 bullet train, which is expected to be more advanced than the B28.
The B35 is being designed to achieve a maximum speed of 350 km/h, with an operational speed of 320 km/h. The Railways have confirmed that work on this initiative has already commenced. As reported by The Indian Express, the Railways is developing these trains by adapting and localizing technology sourced from Japan.
B28 bullet train route
The B28 bullet train will commence operations between Surat and Vapi, covering a distance of roughly 97 kilometers. This route is part of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project. The Railways plan to initiate service on this route by August 2027. This train will consist of 8 fully air-conditioned (AC) cars, manufactured by BEML in Bengaluru, and will offer comfortable seating along with a state-of-the-art infotainment system.
B35 Bullet Train
Following the B28, India will develop the B35 to further enhance its bullet train speeds. Its design speed is set at 350 km/h and operating speed at 320 km/h. In addition to Mumbai-Ahmedabad, the government plans to develop seven new high-speed corridors, including routes such as Delhi-Varanasi, Mumbai-Pune, and Bengaluru-Chennai.