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Indian Railways First High-Speed Test Track To Be Completed By March 2026
Indian Railways officials have confirmed that India's first dedicated high-speed test track will be fully constructed by March 2026. This 64 km test track is being developed in the Jodhpur division of Rajasthan by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) at an investment of ₹967 crore.
One of the Longest High Speed Test Tracks
The high-speed test track is being built in two phases between Gudha and Thathana Mithri in the Jodhpur division, approximately 70 km from Jaipur. Currently, 58 km of the track has already been laid, with the remaining portion scheduled for completion before April 2026. Once completed, India will become the first country to have comprehensive testing facilities for high-speed rolling stock (high-speed trains) that comply with international standards like UIC-518 / EN-14363.
Along this stretch, there will be seven major bridges, four stations, and 129 minor bridges. The track also features designated high-speed and low-speed curved sections to test train performance and stability without speed reduction. The facility has been designed to support speeds of up to 220 km/h.
What makes this test track particularly unique is its length. While most high-speed test tracks in the world are relatively short, this facility spans more than 60 km, enabling far more extensive testing. It will also serve as a global testing hub for high-speed rolling stock manufactured internationally.
In addition to speed testing, the facility will enable evaluation of stability, safety parameters, crash resistance, rolling stock quality, and critical components. The track will also support testing of track materials, bridges, traction distribution systems, signalling equipment, and geotechnical studies. India is also planning to introduce bullet trains in the next five years.
Indian Railways' First Bullet Train In India
India's bullet train ambitions are set to transform the country's railway network. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor will span 508 km, beginning at Bandra Kurla Complex and terminating at Sabarmati, with key stops including Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati.
Developed with Japanese Shinkansen technology, the bullet train will be capable of reaching a maximum speed of 320 km/h, covering the journey in under two hours. The corridor is largely elevated, with over 85% of the track on viaducts and tunnels. The initial stretch is expected to be operational by 2027, with full operation targeted by 2029, after which it will be opened to the public.
Source: Indian Express.com
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