India’s first bullet train is likely to start operations between Sabarmati and Vapi in Gujarat by 2028. A 508-kilometre high-speed rail corridor is being developed between Mumbai and Ahmedabad for this project. The entire route is expected to be operational by 2030.
According to media reports, the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) will soon conduct a ridership survey to estimate the number of passengers, determine fares, and assess traffic projections. The survey will analyse which current travel options—such as cars, taxis, buses, AC trains, and flights—are most likely to see passengers shift to high-speed rail. It will focus particularly on areas around national highways and expressways.
The bullet train will cover about 348 km in Gujarat and 156 km in Maharashtra.
Stations:
In Maharashtra, stations are being built in Mumbai, Thane, Virar, and Boisar. In Gujarat, the stations will be located at Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati.
The bullet train is expected to reduce travel time, lower pollution, create employment opportunities, and boost economic activity.
Work Delayed in Maharashtra:
While the project progressed rapidly in Gujarat, it faced delays of nearly three years in Maharashtra due to land acquisition issues during the tenure of the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi government.
Once completed, the project will place India among the select group of around 15 countries in the world that have a high-speed rail system.