India’s first indigenously manufactured bullet train is expected to begin testing by May-June next year, followed by its inauguration after two to four months, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Tuesday.
Addressing a ‘NaMo for Viksit Bharat’ event in Vadodara, Vaishnaw said the first body frame of the bullet train had recently been completed and sent for a squeeze test.
“By May or June of next year, India’s own bullet train will be on the tracks for testing. After a testing period of 2-4 months, the bullet train will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister himself,” he said.
Vaishnaw said the project was being developed in line with the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. He added that the bullet train would cover the distance between Vadodara and Mumbai in about 90 minutes.
Construction on the Surat-Vapi section is expected to be completed by December this year, he said.
The minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to modernise Indian Railways, including operating and reservation systems, construction practices and freight operations. He said new wagon designs, including one for salt transportation, were being developed.
Vaishnaw said 280 railway stations had been redeveloped and 36,000 km of new tracks developed. He also cited the completion of projects such as the Chenab Bridge and the railway link to Mizoram.
“The modern face of Indian Railways that is emerging will benefit many future generations,” he said.
(ANI Inputs)
