Indian Bullet Train to Debut in 2026

India is furthering its high-speed rail ambitions by embarking on self-built bullet trains. The first bullet train is anticipated to be built in Bengaluru, with a design speed of 280 kilometres per hour (kmph) and an operational speed of 250 km/h. This train is scheduled to begin service in December 2026.

BEML, a state-owned company, has been awarded a contract worth Rs 866.87 crore to design, produce, and commission India's first indigenously built bullet train. BEML announced that it will produce two high-speed trainsets, each with eight coaches, under an order from Indian Railways' Integral Coach Factory (ICF).

BEML indicated that each coach will cost Rs 27.86 crore, with the overall contract value including design costs, one-time development expenses, non-recurring charges, and costs for jigs, fixtures, equipment, and testing facilities.

While Indian Railways first examined Japanese technology for bullet trains on the Ahmedabad-Mumbai track, discussions have stalled. As a result, India may now use locally designed trains along this track. Notably, BEML's per-coach cost is much cheaper than Japan's quote of Rs 46 crore for equivalent bullet train cars.

BEML stated that the infrastructure from this project will be used for future high-speed rail projects throughout India. The project, a crucial milestone in India's high-speed rail effort, would result in trainsets capable of reaching 280 km/h in test mode.

For instance, the Japanese Shinkansen E5 series, which was originally considered for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad line, can reach speeds of 320 km/h. The trains will be built at BEML's Bengaluru facility and are slated to arrive by the end of 2026.

They will include completely air-conditioned Chair Car configurations with modern conveniences, including reclining and rotatable seats, accommodations for persons with limited movement, and onboard infotainment systems.