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The Indian Railways is poised to embark on a significant advancement in its railway infrastructure with the planned production of high-speed train sets capable of reaching speeds up to 280 kilometers per hour (kmph). This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai in collaboration with BEML, signifies a major step towards modernizing India's railway network and enhancing its transportation capabilities. The initiative is a testament to the success of the 'Make in India' initiative, building on the previously successful implementation of the Vande Bharat trains. The announcement was made by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, highlighting the competitiveness of the manufacturing cost, estimated at approximately ₹28 crore per car (excluding taxes). This figure underscores the government's commitment to efficient resource allocation and cost-effectiveness in implementing this large-scale project.
The technological prowess required for the development of such high-speed train sets is undeniable. The design specifications will incorporate several critical elements aimed at ensuring safety, comfort, and efficiency. These include the development of aerodynamic and airtight car bodies to minimize drag and maximize speed. High-speed propulsion electrical systems will be integral to achieving the target speed, alongside weight optimization to improve energy efficiency. Advanced HVAC systems will be implemented to maintain optimal climate control within the train carriages, ensuring passenger comfort during transit. Further passenger-centric amenities will include automatic doors, CCTV surveillance for security, mobile charging points for convenience, and appropriate lighting and fire safety systems. These modern features reflect a clear commitment to providing a safe and comfortable travel experience for passengers.
Beyond the technological aspects, the project's timeline hinges on the finalization of detailed design specifications. The successful completion of this phase is crucial in setting a realistic timetable for manufacturing and deployment. The news of the high-speed train project comes alongside updates on the progress of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project, which is receiving technical and financial support from Japan. Significant progress has been reported in various construction aspects, including the completion of a substantial portion of pier foundations, pier construction, girder casting, and girder launching. The commencement of construction on the 21-kilometer undersea tunnel marks a significant milestone in this ongoing project. The MAHSR corridor, spanning 508 kilometers, will connect twelve stations, enhancing connectivity between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The land acquisition process, a crucial prerequisite for the project's execution, has been completed, covering a total area of 1,389.5 hectares.
The successful implementation of this high-speed rail project holds the potential to revolutionize passenger transport in India. Faster travel times will not only benefit commuters but also stimulate economic growth by enhancing connectivity between major cities. The 'Make in India' aspect of this initiative further reinforces the government's commitment to fostering domestic manufacturing capabilities and technological self-reliance. The project’s success will undoubtedly contribute to India's global standing in the realm of high-speed rail technology and showcase its capabilities in engineering and manufacturing. The focus on passenger comfort and safety, coupled with the advanced technological features incorporated in the design, points towards a significant step towards transforming India’s rail travel landscape.
Source: High-speed 280 kmph trains soon! Indian Railways to manufacture bullet trains