Edit this postMumbai - Ahmedabad high-speed train (bullet train) project is unlikely to begin operations before 2029 and could get delayed to even 2031-32
The main cause of delay at present is the delay in two key issues: the type of trains (rolling stock) and the signalling system to be used on the new line.
Japanese delegation is understood to have informed its Indian counterparts that it would not be possible to deliver Shinkansen high-speed trains before 2030, as India has yet to order them.
A total of 400 coaches (train cars) are needed to operate as eight and 16-car trains.
Within the Ministry of Railways, it is felt in some quarters that high-speed trains could be procured from European manufacturers at approximately half the cost.
However, this could prove problematic for India, as integrating European rolling stock with Japanese signalling technology is unlikely to provide the best solution.
