The world’s transport system may undergo a radical change due to an upcoming innovative idea. India and the United Arab Emirates will be connected by a 2,000-kilometer underwater rail track that spans the Arabian Sea as part of the proposed Mumbai–Dubai underwater train, which is the brainchild of the UAE’s National Advisor Bureau Limited (NABL). The trip between the two cities might just take two hours if it is approved and implemented.
Operating at speeds between 600 and 1,000 km/h, the train is expected to use advanced technology inspired by the Hyperloop system, offering a high-speed, efficient, and eco-friendly alternative to air travel. More than just a passenger train, the corridor will also facilitate the transport of essential goods such as crude oil and water, reinforcing trade and economic ties between the two nations.
The dual-purpose nature of the project reflects its ambitious vision—not only streamlining international connectivity but also supporting economic integration. With this, both logistical efficiency and regional cooperation come into sharper focus.
Yet, the proposal faces significant engineering and financial challenges. Constructing a 2,000-km subsea tunnel will demand cutting-edge technology, resilience against deep-sea pressure, sophisticated safety systems, and sustainable energy solutions. The estimated cost is expected to run into billions of dollars, making international collaboration, feasibility studies, and environmental assessments vital.
Currently in its conceptual phase, the train awaits government approvals. If greenlit, the target completion year is 2030—a timeline that, while ambitious, reflects a growing global appetite for futuristic infrastructure.
Beyond its technological advancements, the underwater train has the potential to lessen the carbon footprint of air travel. Its deployment would be in line with international objectives for clean and sustainable transportation networks. Additionally, the initiative can promote tourism, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen cultural relations between the UAE and India.
Should this become a reality, it could usher in a new era of transcontinental travel—setting a precedent for similar undersea infrastructure projects worldwide. The Mumbai–Dubai corridor may one day serve as a flagship model, proving that the future of global mobility might lie beneath the oceans.
As the world keenly observes, this ambitious project has the potential to transform not only transport but also cross-continental diplomatic and commercial ties. A totally connected future is just on the corner.
Source: Times Entertainment
