China Constructs the World’s Largest Bullet Train in Just 15 Years
China has achieved a remarkable milestone by establishing the world’s largest high-speed rail network within just 15 years. Spanning 47,000 kilometers, this extensive network connects nearly every major city in the country. With trains operating at speeds exceeding 300 km/h, travel times between key destinations, such as Beijing and Shanghai, have been dramatically reduced to just over three hours. This achievement is attributed to China’s commitment to domestic innovation and its ambitions for global expansion, making its rail system unparalleled in both scale and speed.
China’s High-Speed Rail Network
China’s high-speed rail network is a testament to the country’s rapid infrastructure development. Over the past decade and a half, the nation has constructed an impressive 47,000 kilometers of high-speed tracks. This extensive network not only links major cities but also enhances connectivity across the country. Trains operating on these tracks can reach speeds of over 300 km/h, significantly reducing travel times. For instance, the journey from Beijing to Shanghai, which once took over 12 hours, now takes just over three hours. This transformation has made rail travel a preferred mode of transportation for millions of passengers, showcasing the efficiency and effectiveness of China’s rail system. The success of this network is largely attributed to domestic technological advancements and a strategic focus on expanding its global footprint in rail transport.
India’s Bullet Train Ambitions
In contrast to China’s rapid progress, India’s journey towards establishing its own high-speed rail network has been slower. The country’s first bullet train project, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR), has faced delays since its inception in 2017. As of June 2025, only 300 kilometers of viaducts have been completed along the corridor. The project, developed in collaboration with Japan, aims to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad from over seven hours to under three. The first operational phase, connecting Sabarmati to Vapi, is expected to begin by 2028, with full connectivity to Mumbai projected by 2030. This ambitious project reflects India’s aspirations to modernize its rail infrastructure and improve travel efficiency.
Current Progress and Future Prospects
The construction of the MAHSR project has seen significant developments, with 257.4 kilometers of viaduct built using the Full Span Launching Method (FSLM). The project includes 14 river bridges, seven steel bridges, and five prestressed concrete bridges. The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) is currently working on India’s first high-speed train in collaboration with BEML. Track-laying has commenced, with approximately 157 kilometers of reinforced concrete track bed completed in Gujarat. These train sets, designed and produced domestically, are capable of reaching test speeds of 280 km/h. They will feature modern amenities, including air-conditioning, adjustable seating, and dedicated spaces for passengers with limited mobility. The project also emphasizes environmental sustainability, with plans for over 300,000 noise barriers and zero direct emissions.
Challenges Ahead for India’s High-Speed Rail
Despite the progress made, challenges remain, particularly in the Mumbai region. Civil works are nearing completion at six of the eight stations in Gujarat, but progress at the Bandra Kurla Complex underground terminus in Mumbai has been slower. With the first passenger service targeted for 2028 and full-scale operations expected by 2030, India’s bullet train project is gradually moving forward. However, it still has a considerable distance to cover before it can match the scale and efficiency of China’s high-speed rail network. As India continues to work towards this goal, the successful implementation of the MAHSR project will be crucial in shaping the future of high-speed rail travel in the country.
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