Delhi-Mumbai rail route targets 160 kmph train operations, 12-hour journey under Mission Raftaar

Indian Railways is accelerating efforts to transform the Delhi-Mumbai rail corridor through Mission Raftaar, with plans to introduce trains capable of reaching speeds up to 160 kmph. The ambitious 12-hour journey target between the two major Indian cities hinges on a series of infrastructure upgrades along the 84 Route Kilometre stretch from Palwal to Mathura.

Chief Public Relations Officer of the North Central Railway, Dr Shivam Sharma, outlined the myriad works underway to make this faster travel a reality. These upgrades encompass power supply systems, including the recently commissioned 2x25 kV Chhata Traction Substation (TSS) in Agra Division, as well as enhancements to overhead equipment, signalling and telecommunications.

Additional civil and mechanical works are also crucial for ensuring the seamless operation of high-speed trains. The ambitious timetable, with the September 30, 2026 deadline in sight, underscores the scale of this transformation project and its potential to significantly impact passenger experiences on India's most trafficked rail route.