First bullet train in India for Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor will arrive from Japan; 10 interesting facts

In good news, India is all set to welcome its first bullet train, which will soon be arriving from Tokyo, Japan. This transportation revolution will transform the way of commuting in India. The first bullet train will operate on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor and also marks a significant collaboration with Japan. India is hoping that the advanced Shinkansen technology from Japan will transform rail travel in the country.

These bullet trains will be capable of touching speeds up to 320 km/hr with a promise of reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity between two major cities.

Let’s have a look at 10 interesting facts about India’s first bullet train:

India’s first bullet train: Named as Shinkansen E5, this will be India’s first bullet train for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor.

Shinkansen E5 Trains: Shinkansen E5 Trains are noted for their high speed and efficiency. Indian Railways plans to place orders for these trains by 2024, with production timelines dependent on negotiations with Japanese manufacturers.

High speeds: Shinkansen E5 can reach a maximum speed of 350 km/hr. The bullet train will primarily operate at 320 km/hr, and will reduce travel times between Mumbai and Ahemdabad significantly.

Semi-High-Speed Alternatives: Indian Railways is also planning to launch semi-high-speed trains. These could replace existing premium services like Rajdhani and Shatabdi and are expected to run at speeds of up to 250 km/hr.

Innovativeness: The Integral Coach Factory issued a tender for the manufacture of two chair-car high-speed trains with stainless-steel bodies, capable of reaching operational speeds of 250 km/hr.

Testing: The 508-km bullet train corridor will also serve as a testing ground for the newly planned semi-high-speed trains. This dual purpose will ensure that both types of trains can efficiently operate on the same route.

Stops: The bullet train will offer two travel options: one with stops at all 12 stations along the route, taking approximately three hours, and another with limited halts for quicker travel times.

Geography: The corridor will span 508 km, with 351 km in Gujarat and 157 km in Maharashtra. This extensive route highlights the connectivity boost that the bullet train will provide to both states.

Expansion plans: There are plans to expand these in future with 35 bullet trains. Each will have 10 coaches, and will make up to 70 daily trips. This ambitious schedule aims to accommodate a significant number of passengers, enhancing overall capacity.

Undersea tunnel product: Notably, work has begun on the first undersea tunnel between BKC and Thane, which is part of the project. This tunnel represents an engineering feat that further emphasizes the project’s innovative nature.