Mumbai, Jan 20: Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Monday that the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is making significant strides, with the installation of Overhead Electrification (OHE) masts progressing along the corridor. This marks a crucial milestone in India’s first high-speed rail system, aimed at enabling electric traction for the bullet trains.
The minister highlighted that this development aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, strengthening India’s domestic manufacturing capabilities while incorporating globally recognized high-speed rail technology.
The installation of OHE masts is currently underway across key sections of the alignment, including viaduct stretches, ensuring safe and efficient high-speed train operations. These masts are an integral part of the traction infrastructure, ensuring a reliable power supply for the bullet trains operating along the corridor.
The OHE masts are being installed on elevated viaducts at heights ranging from 9.5 to 14.5 meters, with over 20,000 masts set to be installed across the entire corridor. These masts will support the complete 2×25 kV overhead traction power system, including the necessary overhead wires, fittings, and earthing arrangements.
To ensure uninterrupted power supply, a network of Traction Substations (TSS) and Distribution Substations (DSS) is being developed along the route.
Once completed, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities, improving connectivity and convenience for passengers. The project is also expected to boost local economies, create job opportunities, and strengthen India's manufacturing sector.
Minister Vaishnaw emphasized that the initiative is a step towards adopting advanced rail technology and developing world-class rail infrastructure in India.
