BEML likely to produce 250 kmph bullet trains for Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail Corridor

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): Bengaluru is on the verge of a transportation revolution with the announcement that BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited) will produce India’s first high-speed bullet train. This state-of-the-art train is set to operate at speeds of up to 250 km/h and will serve the much-anticipated Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor.

On September 5, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) issued a tender for the manufacturing of two high-speed chair-car trains, capable of reaching an impressive maximum speed of 280 km/h. Bids were accepted until September 19, with BEML emerging as the sole bidder for the two eight-car train sets.

U Subba Rao, the General Manager of ICF, confirmed that the tender process is nearing completion. The manufacturing of these high-speed trains will take place at BEML’s facility in Bengaluru, with an expected production timeline of approximately two and a half years.

While the exact pricing for these advanced trains has not yet been disclosed, estimates suggest costs may range from ₹200 crore to ₹250 crore per train. These cutting-edge trains are crucial for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor, which stretches across 508 kilometers and has a total projected investment of around ₹1.1 lakh crore.

Originally, plans included importing Japanese trains for this route. However, the high costs associated with these imports led to a strategic shift towards domestic production. BEML is collaborating with Medha Servo Drives on this project, ensuring that the trains will meet stringent European standards. Medha will be responsible for developing a propulsion system capable of supporting speeds up to 250 km/h, while BEML will focus on maintaining the structural integrity necessary for these high velocities.

The first high-speed train, designed for operations at 250 km/h, is expected to be completed by December 2026, with trial runs scheduled for the Surat-Bilimora section of the corridor. This advanced train will feature a seating arrangement designed for maximum comfort, with seven cars configured in a 3 + 2 seating layout and one executive car arranged in a 2 + 2 format. This configuration will provide seating for approximately 174 passengers, with potential for future expansions based on demand.

The introduction of India’s first high-speed bullet train signifies a monumental step forward in the nation’s railway infrastructure. With BEML leading the charge in Bengaluru, the ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor is poised to enhance connectivity and redefine travel experiences in the country. As production commences, all eyes will be on this pioneering initiative, which promises to transform how people travel across one of India’s busiest routes.