Ashwini Vaishnaw Reviews India's Indigenous B28 Bullet Train
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspects the indigenous B28 bullet train in Bengaluru, set to launch on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor in 2027.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently conducted a high-profile on-site inspection at the BEML 'Aditya' manufacturing facility in Bengaluru. The visit, which took place on November 1, 2026, was aimed at reviewing the production progress of the B28 bullet train, India's very first indigenous high-speed trainset.
A Major Milestone in High-Speed Manufacturing
During the inspection, the Minister closely examined several critical stages of the manufacturing process. This included the assembly of vital components such as the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, couplers, roof and sidewall modules, and the advanced driver's cabin.
A significant highlight of the visit was the announcement that the B28 prototype has successfully passed the 'Squeeze Test.' This crucial test confirms the structural integrity and strength of the carbody, ensuring it can withstand the rigorous demands of high-speed travel.
Technical Specifications and Passenger Comfort
The B28 is engineered for performance and comfort, designed with a top speed of 280 kmph and an expected operational speed of approximately 249-250 kmph. Here is a look at what passengers can expect:
- Configuration: The train consists of 8 coaches, which can be coupled to form a massive 16-coach unit.
- Capacity: It is designed to accommodate roughly 557 passengers.
- Seating Layout: The interior features seven standard-class coaches with a 3x2 seating arrangement and one premium executive-class coach with a 2x2 layout.
- Accessibility: Specialized provisions have been integrated to ensure ease of travel for Divyangjan (PRM) passengers.
Launch Timeline and the Road to 2030
The development of this trainset is a collaborative effort between BEML Limited and the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), with the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) managing the infrastructure development.
The rollout plan is ambitious. Following the prototype rollout in early 2027, trial runs are scheduled to take place during the first half of 2027 at the Surat depot. The B28 is slated for its commercial debut in August 2027, initially serving the Surat-Vapi section of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor.
Looking even further ahead, the Ministry of Railways has already set its sights on the next generation of speed. Plans are underway to develop the B35 model, which is expected to reach speeds of 350 kmph by the year 2030.