Shinkansen Trains and Bullet Train Project:
Japan is set to provide India with two Shinkansen train sets (E5 and E3 series) at no cost in 2026.
- Shinkansen Trains (E5 Series): It has been operational since 2011. With a speed of 320 km/h, it was initially chosen for India’s first bullet train line.
- Known for its aerodynamic design, advanced safety systems, and smooth ride quality, it represents the cutting edge of high-speed rail technology.
- Shinkansen Trains (E3 Series) a slightly slow and older model primarily used for mini-shinkansen services, it shares similar features to the E5 series, such as safety mechanisms.
- Bullet Train Project (Mumbai-Ahemdabad) implemented by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd. (NHSRCL), the project incorporates Japanese Shinkansen technology.
- The project is funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), covering about 80% of the costs.
- The Project was initially scheduled for completion by 2022, but the revised deadline is now 2028.
- The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor is part of India’s National Rail Plan (NRP) 2030.