Two different bullet trains, signal systems can’t run in same corridor: JTTRI’s Shukuri

Masafumi Shukuri, the Chairman of the Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI) and International High-Speed Rail Association (IHRA), has stated that India must prove it is safe to use both domestically manufactured and imported Japanese bullet trains on the same corridor. He emphasized that "crash avoidance" is crucial for high-speed rail systems, and passengers should not have to worry about safety or reliability while traveling.

In February, India announced seven more high-speed rail projects, including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor, which is expected to open in 2027 using India-made rolling stock. While Japan's rolling stock and signaling systems have been extended full cooperation, it is unclear what will happen to them. Discussions are ongoing regarding their integration.

The IHRA has stressed that merely building high-speed rail infrastructure is not enough to reap its benefits. Instead, attention must be given to station area development and the surrounding area. This has been acknowledged by India, with significant construction currently underway for station area development.

Shukuri noted that Prime Minister Takaichi's summit meeting with Prime Minister Modi in July led to a joint declaration to introduce the E10 series bullet train by the early 2030s. He also mentioned that Japan's extensive experience in constructing and operating high-speed rail, which began in 1964, is a critical factor.

Despite potential challenges and delays, Shukuri remains optimistic about the project's progress. He highlighted the importance of ensuring safety and reliability for passengers, as well as investing in the necessary training, technical expertise, and maintenance for a fully functional system.