India Begins Work on 280 kmph Indigenous High-Speed Train After Vande Bharat Success
Encouraged by the widespread deployment of 164 Vande Bharat Express trains, Indian Railways has now set its sights on developing a faster, next-generation train capable of touching 280 kmph.
Replying to questions in the Lok Sabha on February 11, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project aligns with the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, which aims to expand domestic production of railway technology and minimise reliance on foreign suppliers.
He informed Parliament that the Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF) is jointly working with Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) to design and build the new high-speed trainsets.
According to the minister, the initiative builds directly on the experience gained from the Vande Bharat programme, with the upcoming trains planned at a design speed of 280 kmph.
The response came after MPs P C Mohan, Mala Roy and Kalanidhi Veeraswamy sought clarity on whether key railway components — including rolling stock, signalling, track systems and electrical equipment — are now being produced domestically under the government’s manufacturing push, and also requested details related to high-speed rail development.
Project details
In October 2024, ICF awarded BEML a contract to design, manufacture and commission two prototype high-speed trainsets, each consisting of eight coaches.
- Cost per coach: ₹27.86 crore
- Total project value: ₹866.87 crore
The contract covers design expenditure, one-time development expenses, specialised tooling, fixtures, testing infrastructure and other non-recurring engineering costs — facilities that will support future high-speed train manufacturing in India.
Passenger features
The upcoming trains will be fully air-conditioned with a chair-car layout and will include:
- Reclining, rotating seats
- Facilities for passengers with reduced mobility
- Onboard infotainment systems
BEML stated that production will take place at its rail coach complex in Bengaluru, with delivery expected by the end of 2026.
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