India&rsquo;s first bullet train project is set to get a major boost with the introduction of Japan&rsquo;s new E10 Shinkansen trains on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor. The 508-kilometre line, being built with Japanese technology and funding support, will connect the two cities in less than three hours, compared with the current travel time of seven to eight hours.
The E10 series is the latest generation of Shinkansen, designed by JR East as a successor to the E5 trains. It features advanced aerodynamics, energy-efficient systems and enhanced safety measures, including shorter braking distances and improved earthquake protection. The trains are expected to operate at a top commercial speed of 320 km/h, offering passengers world-class comfort with redesigned interiors, better luggage space and more flexible seating.
Trial runs on the Gujarat section of the corridor will begin with E5 Shinkansen sets around 2026-27. Full commercial operations with the E10 series are targeted for 2030, aligning with the government&rsquo;s timeline for completing the entire project. The Gujarat stretch is expected to open by December 2027, with the Maharashtra section following by the end of 2029.
Civil construction is progressing rapidly, with more than 300 kilometres of viaduct already built. Work on the 21-kilometre tunnel between Mumbai&rsquo;s Bandra-Kurla Complex and Thane, which includes an undersea section, is also advancing. Station construction and signalling contracts have been finalised as India and Japan deepen cooperation on the project.
Once operational, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train will not only transform passenger travel with unprecedented speed and safety but also mark a significant leap in technology transfer. Indian firms are expected to participate in train assembly and infrastructure works, laying the foundation for future high-speed rail projects across the country.

Japan’s Shinkansen to Power Mumbai-Ahmedabad train

Next-generation Japanese high-speed trains will cut travel time to under three hours

Japan’s Shinkansen to Power Mumbai-Ahmedabad train

Next-generation Japanese high-speed trains will cut travel time to under three hours

September 21, 2025 | 20:24 IST