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B28 Bullet Train: Ashwini Vaishnaw Says Progress Is on Track, Squeeze Test Completed
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that the development of India’s indigenous B28 bullet train is progressing well following his inspection of the manufacturing facility at BEML in Bengaluru. He said the project has successfully completed one of its most complex stages — the squeeze test — and is moving towards the integration of major systems and equipment.
Explaining the significance of the squeeze test, Vaishnaw said that trains operating at very high speeds experience significant pressure-related forces. A vacuum effect develops around the moving train, exposing its coaches to atmospheric pressure. The test is therefore essential to assess the structural performance and safety of the coaches under such conditions.
According to the Railway Minister, the squeeze test has now been completed. The train is expected to come out of the production facility next week with certification from international certifiers. Following this, the integration of propulsion equipment and other systems will begin. Interior components, including passenger furniture, will also be installed.
The integrated train will subsequently undergo climate testing to assess its performance under different environmental conditions, including high and low temperatures, dust, heavy rainfall and exposure to large quantities of water. These tests will help establish whether the train meets the required quality parameters and international safety standards.
Vaishnaw said that after completing the prescribed tests, the train will first be taken to a dedicated test track within the BEML campus. It will then be moved to the Surat depot, where it will undergo further testing on a longer track.
He explained that train testing involves several stages, including the application of different forces, such as pulling and pushing loads, to evaluate the performance of individual systems and subsystems. Parameters will be measured to ensure that every component complies with the stipulated quality and safety standards before the train is permitted to operate on the main track.
The Railway Minister added that the testing process would follow a comprehensive international safety protocol. A detailed protocol document will guide the different stages of testing before the train is cleared for track trials.
On the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project, Vaishnaw said construction work was progressing at a good pace on both the Ahmedabad and Mumbai sides. He stated that construction of the first section is expected to be completed by December this year, while the B28 train is likely to be placed on the track for testing around April or May next year.
The upcoming testing programme will be a crucial milestone for the indigenous high-speed train, as it moves from manufacturing and system integration towards comprehensive safety validation and track trials.