Tokyo/New Delhi | June 1, 2025 — A significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development has been reached as Japan officially commenced trial runs of the high-speed bullet train intended for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor. The trial, carried out on Japanese tracks, marks a major leap toward India’s ambition of introducing the world-class Shinkansen technology to its transportation network.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project, formally known as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR), is being built with technical and financial assistance from Japan. As per current plans, the bullet trains will run at a top speed of 320 km/h, reducing travel time between the two major cities from nearly 7 hours to just around 2 hours.
The train currently undergoing trials in Japan is the E5 Series Shinkansen, known for its safety, speed, and passenger comfort. The trials are assessing performance, safety features, and compatibility with Indian conditions. The final version of the train will be adapted for Indian climatic and geographic conditions before delivery.
According to officials from the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), the first set of bullet train coaches is expected to be shipped to India by mid-2026. Once they arrive, domestic trials on the completed sections of the corridor in Gujarat will begin.
The project is expected to be operational in phases, with the Surat-Bilimora stretch likely to be the first to open by 2027. Full-scale commercial operations on the entire 508 km Mumbai-Ahmedabad route are projected to begin by 2028.
Key Highlights:
Trial Location: Japan (on Shinkansen-compatible tracks)
Train Model: E5 Series Shinkansen
Top Speed: 320 km/h
Distance Covered: 508 km between Mumbai and Ahmedabad
Expected India Arrival of Train Sets: Mid-2026
First Phase Operation (Surat-Bilimora): Expected by 2027
Full Route Commissioning: Targeted for 2028
