Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday confirmed that India’s first high-speed rail project–the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train–will be fully operational by 2029. A 50-km priority stretch between Surat and Bilimora in Gujarat is expected to open to passengers by 2027.
The minister inspected the under-construction Surat station, where major track installation and the first turnout have already been completed. Once operational, the trains will slash travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to just two hours and seven minutes, compared to the current nine hours shown on Google Maps.
“Overall progress of the first bullet train project is very good. The first 50 km section between Surat and Bilimora will be open by 2027. By 2028, the Thane-Ahmedabad section will be commissioned, and by 2029, the full Mumbai-Ahmedabad line will open,” Vaishnaw said.
Add Zee Business as a Preferred Source
Also Read: Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train: Ghansoli tunnel breakthrough achieved using New Austrian Tunneling Method
Modern technology to ensure safety
Vaishnaw underlined that advanced technology is being deployed to guarantee safety along the corridor. This includes vibration absorption systems embedded along tracks and special design features to withstand high winds and seismic activity.
Heavy civil work at Surat station has already been completed, with utility installations and finishing work in progress. Track linking is underway with the first turnout installed using modern roller bearings and composite sleepers, which will make the system more durable and efficient.
Also Read: Railways lines up 12,000 special trains for Diwali, Chhath to ease festive rush; bookings begin on this date
High-speed service details
The 508 km-long corridor is designed for speeds of up to 320 kmph, while the loop lines will function at 80 kmph. The schedule will initially allow a train departure every 30 minutes during morning and evening peak hours. Over time, the frequency is expected to increase significantly. “Once the entire network stabilises, there will be a train every 10 minutes during peak hours,” Vaishnaw had earlier said.
Economic boost along corridor
According to officials, the project is not just about faster travel but also about economic integration. The high-speed rail corridor is expected to connect major commercial hubs in Maharashtra and Gujarat, unlocking new trade opportunities and stimulating regional growth–similar to the transformative role bullet trains played in Japan’s post-war economic expansion.
The minister further hinted at future plans. In line with the BJP’s election manifesto, he said four additional bullet train corridors are being planned in other parts of the country.
