Free Shinkansen Trains for India: Japan will provide two Shinkansen train sets (E5 and E3 series) to India at no cost in early 2026. This is to help test and inspect the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor.
Purpose of the Trains: The trains will be fitted with inspection equipment to collect crucial operational data, especially regarding India’s environmental conditions (high temperatures, dust).
E5 and E3 Series Details: The E5 series is a high-speed train (320 km/h) in service since 2011. The E3 series is a slightly older model for mini-shinkansen services. Both have aerodynamic designs and advanced safety features.
Next-Generation Shinkansen (E10/Alfa-X): The inspection data will help fine-tune the design of the E10, the next-generation Shinkansen (up
to 400 kmph), planned for adoption by both countries in the early 2030s.
Mumbai-Ahmedabad Project: The project, implemented by NHSRCL, uses Japanese Shinkansen technology and is largely funded (80%) by a low-interest loan from JICA.
Project Timeline: The initial completion deadline of 2022 has been revised to 2028, with a partial opening expected by August 2027.
Significance for India: The Shinkansen represents modern engineering, punctuality, and safety. India will gain hands-on experience before the E10 rollout. The trains are expected to be modified for Indian conditions (luggage space, weather resistance).
National Rail Plan 2030: The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor aligns with India’s broader rail modernisation strategy under the National Rail Plan 2030.
