Bullet Train: India is on the verge of reaching a significant milestone in rail technology. The country’s first homegrown bullet train is anticipated to commence operations by April 2027. As reported by the media, this initiative marks a crucial advancement towards self-sufficiency in high-speed rail systems and aligns with the government’s push for domestic manufacturing.
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) is developing the train in partnership with Indian Railways. Officials mentioned in the report that the prototype of this high-speed train is currently under development and will be capable of reaching speeds of up to 280 km/h. However, its operational speed may be slightly reduced for safety and efficiency reasons.
On Saturday, Union Minister for Railways, Electronics & IT, and Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the Atmanirbhar High Speed Bullet Train Coach Production Unit at Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) in Bengaluru, calling it one of several upcoming railway projects for Karnataka.
The new facility, named the Aditya Plant, will produce coaches for India’s indigenous high-speed bullet train, referred to as the B-28. This project is a collaborative design effort between the Integral Coach Factory and BEML. Vaishnav stated that the B-28 ICF and BEML are working together to create a self-reliant version of the bullet train. He also mentioned that manufacturing will occur at BEML’s specially designed facility, the Aditya Plant, which is equipped with advanced, high-precision machinery, including a robotic laser welding system. The first prototype is expected to be ready early next year, with the goal of being fully operational by the end of 2027.
During his visit, the Minister assessed the ongoing production of railway and metro coaches and engaged with BEML officials and staff. Senior officials, including Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar and BEML Managing Director Shantanu Roy, were also in attendance.
Announcing the new connectivity plan, Vaishnav said that two new train services will be launched between Bengaluru and Mumbai in the coming months. He said, “We are launching two new services to Mumbai in a few months from now. A superfast service from Bengaluru via Hubli-Dharwad and a Vande Bharat sleeper service from Bengaluru to Mumbai.”
The minister also said that rail connectivity to coastal Karnataka will soon improve. The electrification of the Hassan-Mangaluru line has been completed, and the Vande Bharat service is expected to begin soon. He said, “Soon, we will have Vande Bharat Express service towards Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Madgaon. Vande Bharat service will begin across coastal Karnataka very soon.” A rail link from Bengaluru to Madgaon via Mangaluru is also planned.
Referring to the Vande Bharat Sleeper service currently operating between Guwahati and Kolkata, Vaishnav said it is seeing 80 to 90 percent occupancy daily, indicating a good passenger response. He also highlighted the progress of the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project. He said, “The progress of Bengaluru Suburban is also very good.
