BEML, a state-owned enterprise, has won a contract worth Rs 866.87 crore to design, manufacture, and commission two high-speed bullet train sets, marking the first time such a project will be carried out domestically. The contract was awarded by Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai.
Each train car is priced at Rs 27.86 crore, with the overall contract covering design, development, tooling, testing facilities, and other associated costs, which will also be used for future high-speed rail projects in India.
This project is seen as a major step forward in India’s journey towards high-speed rail, with the train sets expected to have a top test speed of 280 km/h. The bullet trains will be built at BEML’s Bengaluru rail coach complex, with delivery expected by the end of 2026.
This comes after efforts to procure Japanese bullet trains were unsuccessful, prompting India to develop its own. While it’s not confirmed whether these trains will be deployed on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, they represent a significant advancement in the country’s rail infrastructure.
The fully air-conditioned train sets will feature reclining and rotatable seats, accessibility options for passengers with limited mobility, and onboard entertainment systems. Over the past year, Indian Railways has tested its capabilities in high-speed rail development on a standard gauge track in Rajasthan, with plans to export Vande Bharat trains in the future.
BEML Limited (Bharat Earth Movers Limited) is an Indian Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Defence, specializing in the manufacturing of a wide range of products for industries such as defense, mining, railways, and construction.
Founded in 1964, BEML plays a crucial role in supplying heavy equipment like earthmovers, excavators, and rail coaches for various sectors, supporting the country’s infrastructure development and defense preparedness. With its headquarters in Bengaluru and multiple manufacturing units across India, BEML is known for its indigenous production capabilities, technological innovations, and contributions to projects of national importance. The company also exports its products globally, strengthening India’s presence in international markets. BEML is a key player in advancing India’s self-reliance in critical industrial sectors.
