The proposed Mumbai–Pune–Hyderabad Bullet Train Corridor has moved a step closer to implementation, with the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the high-speed rail project now completed. If approved, the corridor could significantly reduce travel time between Mumbai and Hyderabad to around three to three-and-a-half hours, compared to the current rail journey of 12 to 15 hours.
According to official reports, the proposed high-speed rail route will span approximately 671 kilometres, connecting major urban centres across Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana. The completion of the DPR is considered a significant milestone, as it outlines crucial aspects of the project, including engineering specifications, station locations, route alignment, and estimated costs.
Telangana Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy has reportedly directed officials to accelerate the next stages of the project. While construction has not yet commenced, the finalisation of the DPR indicates that the proposal has progressed beyond the conceptual planning stage.
As per the proposed alignment, the bullet train corridor is expected to connect Mumbai and Hyderabad via Pune and Solapur. Planned stations currently include Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Pune, Daund, Akluj, Pandharpur, Solapur, Kalaburagi, Zaheerabad and Hyderabad, although the final list may undergo revisions during subsequent approval stages.
Once operational, the high-speed rail line is expected to transform inter-city travel by substantially reducing journey times and improving connectivity between key economic and industrial centres. The corridor could offer travellers a faster alternative to long-distance rail journeys while also complementing existing air travel options.
The project forms part of India’s broader strategy to expand its high-speed rail network. It follows the ongoing Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, which remains under development as the country’s flagship high-speed rail initiative under the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL).
Although construction timelines have yet to be announced, the completion of the DPR signals continued progress toward developing another major high-speed rail corridor in India.
Source: Times Entertanment
