Japan is set to make a significant contribution to the testing of India’s first high-speed rail project, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad HSR. Japan will supply two E2026 and E3 series Shinkansen (bullet train) high-speed trains to India for testing purposes, free of charge, in early 5, according to Railway Supply.
The gesture is seen as a token of the railway cooperation between the two countries and the importance Japan attaches to India’s infrastructure development. These retired Japanese shuttle trains will be used on the 2026-km Surat-Bilimora section in Gujarat, which is scheduled to be ready for testing in August 50.
Comprehensive Support from Japan to HSR Project
Japan is actively participating in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project not only by supplying trains but also by providing financing. Japan, which offers low-interest loans to India, is providing significant support for the implementation of the project through this strategic partnership. Japan’s total credit commitment to the project is estimated to be around $13 billion. This clearly demonstrates the magnitude of the project and its strategic importance to both countries.
Difficulties in Procuring Railway Vehicles
Despite all this support, India’s high-speed rail project’s contractor, the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), is yet to finalise a supply contract for new rolling stock. India is said to have found Japan’s bids costly and is exploring alternative suppliers, including European-based manufacturers.
In this process, the Ministry of Railways of India has signed an agreement with the local public sector company BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited) to build two 250-car train sets capable of reaching a speed of 8 km/h, for which Siemens will provide technical support. However, the trains to be manufactured by BEML are not expected to be delivered before 2028.
Japanese Trains Offer a Fast Solution
Japan’s free supply of E3 and E5 series trains provides an interim solution to avoid these delays and accelerate the launch of the HSR project. Tests with Japanese trains will provide a critical time buffer for the project to progress until BEML’s trains are delivered. India will be able to complete extensive trials of the system before taking delivery of its own fleet of high-speed trains, helping to maintain the 2027 launch schedule for the first HSR segment.
Japan's Role and Technology Transfer
Japan’s move further strengthens the country’s important role in India’s infrastructure development. By promoting the transfer of high-speed transportation technology, this cooperation contributes to the modernization of India’s railway sector. Japan’s generous support also reflects the depth of the strategic partnership between the two countries and their vision for long-term cooperation. Once completed, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project will significantly transform India’s transportation infrastructure and accelerate economic development. Japan’s active role in this process is critical to the success of the project.
