India's first 250 kmph bullet train likely to be manufactured in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, known for its notorious traffic congestion, is paradoxically set to become the manufacturing hub for India's inaugural high-speed bullet train. The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) has initiated a tender for BEML-Medha Servo Drives to produce two high-speed train sets, capable of reaching 280 kmph, with an operational speed of 250 kmph, for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor.

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According to a MoneyControl report, U Subba Rao, ICF's general manager, confirmed that BEML is the sole bidder for this project, aiming to finalize the tender within a week. The manufacturing of these stainless steel chair-car trains is slated to be completed within 2.5 years at BEML's Bengaluru plant. Although the exact cost remains undisclosed, estimates suggest each train could cost between Rs 200-250 crore.

Originally, Japanese Shinkansen trains were considered for the MAHSR corridor, but the high costs led to a shift towards indigenous development. BEML, with its expertise in carbody construction, and Medha, known for its propulsion systems in Vande Bharat trains, are collaborating to meet European standards for high-speed rail technology.

The project involves Medha developing a new propulsion system suitable for 250 kmph, while BEML focuses on the carbody structure. A European design consultant will assist in this endeavor. The first train, featuring eight cars with a seating capacity of about 174, is expected to debut by December 2026, with initial trials on the Surat-Bilimora segment of the MAHSR.

This initiative not only marks a significant step in India's rail technology but also eyes export opportunities to Southeast Asia and Africa. Following successful trials, further orders are anticipated for expanding high-speed rail networks across India, including routes like Delhi-Varanasi and Mumbai-Hyderabad.