Made in India Bullet Train to Start on Mumbai–Ahmedabad Route in 2027; First Stretch to Run Between Surat and Vapi
New Delhi, March 14, 2026: India is preparing to launch its first high-speed rail service on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor using a domestically manufactured bullet train. The B28 trainset, being developed in Bengaluru, will operate on the initial stretch when passenger services begin in August 2027 .
Project Overview
The entire corridor stretches approximately 508 km, connecting Ahmedabad's Sabarmati station with Mumbai. Multiple stations, viaducts, and tunnels are currently under construction along the route, with the project progressing in phases. The first operational section will cover around 100 km between Surat and Vapi in Gujarat .
While the first section will use the Indian-built B28 trainsets, Japanese high-speed trains are expected to join operations in later phases once procurement and deployment are completed. Challenges in importing rolling stock from Japan were cited as a reason for deploying an indigenous train during the first phase, allowing operations to commence on schedule .
Technical Specifications
The B28 trains are designed to run at a speed of 250 kmph initially, with plans to upgrade them for higher speeds of 320-350 kmph in the future. Two trainsets are currently under development. The high-speed rail system will use the ETCS Level 2 signalling system, designed for speeds up to 280 kmph. The tender for this signalling system has been awarded, and installation work is underway along the corridor .
Project Implementation
The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited is implementing the project, which is considered one of India's largest infrastructure initiatives. Officials have confirmed that the first phase will start by August 15, 2027, and the full corridor is expected to be operational by around 2029 .
Economic Impact
Once fully operational, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two cities, strengthen regional connectivity, and support economic growth in Gujarat and Maharashtra. The phased approach ensures that passenger services can begin while construction on the remaining sections continues .
This project represents a significant step in introducing high-speed rail in India and demonstrates the country's growing capabilities in indigenous rail technology .