India’s First Bullet Train Station Unveiled in Ahmedabad: Railway Minister Shares Exclusive Video
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor has been making significant strides in its development since construction commenced in November 2021. The ambitious project, which aims to connect the two major cities with a cutting-edge bullet train system, had its foundation laid in Ahmedabad back in September 2017. Over the years, the endeavour has witnessed meticulous planning and execution, marking a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of advanced and efficient transportation infrastructure. As progress continues, the project holds the promise of revolutionising inter-city travel, offering passengers a swift and streamlined journey between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
Unveiling the Hub of Progress: India’s First Bullet Train Terminal at Sabarmati Multimodal Transport Hub, Ahmedabad
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently offered a captivating glimpse into India’s pioneering venture—the construction of the country’s inaugural bullet train terminal at the Sabarmati Multimodal Transport Hub in Ahmedabad. In a visually stunning video, the minister showcased the architectural marvel that is set to redefine the travel experience for passengers. The terminal stands out with state-of-the-art modern features, emphasising both comfort and cutting-edge design.
This significant step forward aligns with the ambitious plan to launch the high-speed train service between Ahmedabad and Mumbai. The collaborative efforts of the Indian government, coupled with technical and financial support from Japan, underscore the international cooperation driving this transformative project. As the terminal takes shape, it not only symbolises progress in transportation but also reflects the synergy between nations working towards a shared vision of advanced connectivity.
Fast-Tracking the Future: Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Corridor’s Strategic Funding and Global Synergy
Earlier announcements from Mr. Vaishnaw have shed light on the anticipated progress of India’s first bullet train project. The initial 50-kilometre section connecting Bilimora and Surat in Gujarat is slated for completion in August 2026. Notably, a substantial stride has been achieved with the accomplishment of 100 kilometres of viaducts and 230 kilometres of pier work—a crucial milestone within the expansive Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor. This particular section, from Bilimora to Surat, forms an integral part of the broader corridor, marking a significant headway in the overall development of this transformative transportation initiative.
It’s fascinating to witness the steady strides in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor project since its initiation in November 2021. The foundation laid in Ahmedabad in September 2017 serves as a testament to the vision and dedication behind this transformative bullet train initiative.
The financial framework for this ambitious project is equally noteworthy. With a projected cost of ₹1.08 lakh crore, the commitment from the central government, contributing ₹10,000 crore, along with the shared responsibility of ₹5,000 crore each from Gujarat and Maharashtra, underscores the collaborative effort involved. The strategic financial partnership with Japan, offering a loan at an incredibly minimal 0.1 percent interest rate, speaks to the global cooperation shaping the future of high-speed rail in India. It’s a remarkable blend of vision, commitment, and international collaboration driving this monumental endeavour.
Transformative Economic Vision: Make in India’s Impact on Manufacturing and Employment Growth
Vishnaw emphasised the pivotal role of manufacturing in the growth trajectory of nations that have successfully traversed the developmental phase. He lauded Prime Minister Modi’s strategic economic initiatives, highlighting “Make in India” as a cornerstone. The comprehensive approach encompassed subsequent programs such as “Design in India” and “Innovate in India,” reflecting a holistic vision for economic transformation.
According to Vishnaw, the emphasis on manufacturing has yielded tangible results in terms of employment generation. The data, evident in formal employment and provident fund registrations, tells a compelling story. Monthly registrations, once at 6 lakh or approximately 70 lakh annually, have surged to an impressive 14 lakh to 15 lakh monthly or around 1.8 crores annually. This growth underscores the success of the initiatives, illustrating a positive impact on employment opportunities and the broader economic landscape.