India is set to embark on an ambitious expansion of its high-speed rail (HSR) network, adding four new corridors by 2035 to enhance connectivity and drive economic growth. This initiative builds upon the ongoing Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project and aims to revolutionize India's railway infrastructure.

The proposed corridors, identified in a study by rail expert Mr. Ramakrishnan TS for Infravision Foundation, include:

1. Delhi-Rewari-Jaipur-Ajmer-Jodhpur-Ahmedabad-Mumbai

2. Chennai-Mumbai via Tirupati, Bengaluru, Tumkuru, Davangere, Dharwad, Belagavi, Kolhapur, Satara, Pune, and Navi Mumbai, with a spur to Goa.

3. Delhi-Sonipat-Panipat-Karnal-Ambala-Chandigarh-Ludhiana-Jalandhar-Amritsar

4. Delhi-Agra-Lucknow-Varanasi-Patna-Kolkata

Rising Demand for Faster, Luxurious Rail Travel

The study highlights a major shift in passenger preferences, with rising demand for faster, luxury train travel. Air-conditioned (AC) rail travel has doubled since 2005-06, but domestic air travel overtook AC rail travel in 2018. Additionally, luxury bus travel accounted for 70% of total omnibus travel, nearly twice that of AC rail travel in 2024.

India's experience with semi-high-speed rail (semi-HSR) has laid the foundation for full-scale HSR adoption. Key developments include:

• Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) achieving speeds up to 180 km/h.

• 66 Vande Bharat trains operating at speeds of 160 km/h.

National High-Speed Rail Technology Corporation: A Crucial Step

To oversee the rapid expansion of India's HSR infrastructure, the study recommends the establishment of a National High-Speed Rail Technology Corporation. This entity would:

• Ensure seamless technological integration and innovation.

• Facilitate international partnerships for funding and expertise.

• Support India’s goal of achieving developed economy status by 2047.

• Align with the country’s net-zero emissions target by 2070.

Economic and Environmental Benefits of HSR Expansion

The expansion of high-speed rail corridors is expected to:

• Reduce travel time significantly, making business and leisure travel more efficient.

• Boost regional economies by enhancing trade and connectivity.

• Lower carbon emissions, supporting India's sustainability goals.

• Create thousands of jobs in the construction and operation of the new rail networks.

Government’s Commitment to Infrastructure Growth

The Indian government has consistently prioritized railway modernization as part of its broader infrastructure development strategy. The successful implementation of these four new high-speed rail corridors will position India among global leaders in advanced rail technology.

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With India’s high-speed rail revolution, the future of travel is set to become faster, greener, and more efficient. Stay connected for more updates on India's transportation and economic advancements!