Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train cost doubles
The estimated cost of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has surged to around Rs 2.1 lakh crore, more than double the initial projection of approximately Rs 1.1 lakh crore. This revision was presented to the Cabinet on Tuesday, according to sources cited by TOI. The expansion in budget and timeline is attributed to factors like land acquisition, delays in receiving train sets from Japan, and clearance processes.
The 508-km high-speed rail corridor between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, expected to commence operation in August 2027, is projected to significantly cut travel time. However, the project has faced multiple setbacks since its initiation. These include difficulties in acquiring land in Maharashtra, obtaining necessary clearances, and finalizing train sets.
The revised project cost is anticipated to alter the funding plan, with most additional funds likely to stem from government support. The original funding of Rs 1.1 lakh crore comprised financial assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and budgetary allocation.
Notably, the trains for the bullet train are set to be manufactured in India, a move seen as instrumental in developing domestic capabilities in high-speed rail technology. Each train is expected to cost between Rs 390 crore and Rs 400 crore.
Written by urgent.news from The Economic Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
