The introduction of bullet trains in India has sparked a nationwide debate over whether the country’s current railway ecosystem is equipped to support such high-speed ambitions. Proponents view it as a symbol of modernity and global competitiveness, while critics raise concerns over feasibility, safety, and priorities.
1. Infrastructure Limitations and Compatibility
India’s conventional railway tracks, mostly designed for speeds under 130 kmph, present a major barrier to high-speed rail. Only 22% (about 23,000 km) of the 1.03 lakh km railway network supports speeds up to 130 kmph, and around 54,000 km accommodates 110 kmph. In contrast, bullet trains require completely dedicated tracks capable of handling speeds over 250 kmph. These tracks, constructed as elevated corridors or underground tunnels, bypass compatibility issues but bring up major challenges like cost escalation and land acquisition—particularly in congested areas such as Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Critics argue that focusing on bullet trains may divert attention and investment from upgrading existing rail infrastructure, which remains under strain even with semi-high-speed trains like the Vande Bharat Express.
2. Trespassing and Safety Hazards
A persistent and deadly issue in Indian Railways is track trespassing, often due to a lack of proper barriers and public awareness. Despite ongoing fencing efforts, several accidents occur annually due to individuals crossing tracks illegally. While bullet train tracks will be fully fenced and isolated, risks remain during construction phases and in nearby communities unless comprehensive safety campaigns and physical protections are enforced. Incidents in cities like Bengaluru expose systemic flaws in surveillance and law enforcement that may challenge even the most advanced rail projects.
3. Accident History and Public Confidence
India’s railway safety record has been far from reassuring. Between January and May 2024, there were 18 railway accidents, with derailments making up 72% of such incidents in the past five years. Tragedies like the 2018 Amritsar Dussehra incident (59 fatalities) and the 2014 Medak school bus crash (18 fatalities) highlight vulnerabilities due to poor track discipline, unmanned crossings, and inadequate safety mechanisms. Although bullet trains will run on isolated infrastructure, public confidence remains low when broader railway safety is in question.
4. Underperformance of Vande Bharat Trains
The Vande Bharat Express, India's flagship semi-high-speed train, is an example of technological innovation hindered by infrastructure gaps. Designed for 160 kmph, these trains frequently operate below their potential due to incomplete track upgrades. As of 2023, only about 2,741 km of tracks have been enhanced to 110 kmph against the planned 5,000 km. Collisions with cattle and other obstructions also remain unresolved. If current infrastructure cannot support Vande Bharat’s full capabilities, the feasibility of operating and maintaining bullet trains efficiently becomes questionable.
5. Safety Systems and Technology Integration
India has developed Kavach 5.0, an indigenous anti-collision system that enhances safety through automated controls. Though deployed on some Vande Bharat routes, its adoption remains limited. Bullet trains will rely on Japan’s advanced Shinkansen technology, known for its fail-safe mechanisms. While this system is proven abroad, the challenge lies in integrating foreign tech into India’s distinct and complex rail ecosystem. There are concerns over the interoperability of hybrid safety frameworks and their long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
India’s bullet train project represents a bold leap toward high-speed rail mobility. However, its success depends not just on sleek trains and advanced technology but on resolving deep-rooted infrastructural, safety, and governance issues. Without parallel investment in existing railway modernization and safety enforcement, the bullet train may end up as a prestigious yet disconnected symbol rather than a meaningful transformation of Indian transport.