Bullet train project: BEML bags ₹867 crore contract for design, manufacturing of high-speed rail

Ahemdabad: State-owned BEML is set to produce India’s first indigenous high-speed train, capable of reaching a maximum speed of 280 km/h. The project will involve the manufacture of two trains, each consisting of eight coaches, expected to be completed within the next two years. Designed for standard gauge tracks, these trains can operate on the Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train network.

The official statement from the company states, “BEML Limited has been awarded a contract for the design, manufacturing, and commissioning of two high-speed trainsets, each comprising 8 cars by Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai. The price of each car is ₹27.86 Crs and the total contract value is ₹866.87 Crs which includes design cost, one-time development cost, non-recurring charges, onetime cost towards Jigs, fixtures, tooling and testing facilities, which will be utilised for all future High-Speed projects in India. This project marks a significant milestone in India’s high-speed rail journey and will see the first indigenously designed and manufactured trainsets with a test speed of 280 kmph.”

“The trainsets will be built at BEML’s Bengaluru rail coach complex and are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026. Featuring a fully air-conditioned, Chair Car configuration, the trains will offer modern passenger amenities such as reclining and rotatable seats, special provisions for passengers with restricted mobility, and onboard infotainment systems,” the statement added.

The government aims to commence trial runs of bullet trains on the Surat-Bilimora section in South Gujarat by August-September 2026. This project will mark the debut of India’s first indigenously designed and manufactured train sets with a test speed of 280 km/h. DeshGujarat