July 15, 2025: The Ministry of Railways has categorically denied recent media reports and social media claims suggesting that the Japanese bullet train will not operate on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor. In a statement issued on Monday, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) labelled such claims as “misleading” and reaffirmed that the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project is progressing as per schedule.
Responding to speculation that the government is considering deploying indigenous Vande Bharat trains instead of Japanese Shinkansen technology, the PIB clarified: “No such decision has been made. Work on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor is proceeding as planned.”
Highlighting the strategic Indo-Japanese partnership, the Ministry confirmed that the next-generation E10 Shinkansen trains—yet to debut even in Japan—will be introduced on the 508-kilometre corridor. “The entire line is being constructed using Japanese Shinkansen technology, which sets global standards in speed, safety, and reliability,” the Ministry noted.
The project has also achieved significant construction milestones. Over 310 km of viaduct has been completed, along with 15 river bridges. Work is well underway on an additional four bridges. Out of 12 stations, five have been completed, with three more nearing completion.
A major engineering feat includes the undersea tunnel between BKC and Thane, where the first 21-km section has now been opened. The BKC station itself will sit 32.5 metres underground and support a 95-metre building above.
The Ministry further stated that the success of the MAHSR will lay the foundation for future high-speed rail corridors across India. Systems procurement and civil construction are ongoing at a rapid pace, with Maharashtra’s segment showing notable momentum. The bullet train remains on track—both literally and strategically.
Source: ET NOW
