Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is progressing steadily, with the installation of Overhead Electrification (OHE) masts advancing along the high-speed rail corridor, Union Minister for Railways, Communications and Electronics & IT Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw said today.
The ongoing work marks a key milestone in enabling electric traction for India’s first high-speed rail system and reflects strong on-ground execution under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The project combines globally proven high-speed rail technology with strengthened domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Installation of OHE masts is underway across major sections of the alignment, including elevated viaduct stretches, to support safe, smooth and efficient bullet train operations. These masts are a critical component of the traction infrastructure, ensuring a reliable and continuous power supply to trains operating at high speeds.
In total, over 20,000 steel OHE masts, ranging in height from 9.5 metres to 14.5 metres, will be installed along the corridor. Mounted on elevated viaducts at significant heights above ground level, the masts will support the complete 2×25 kV overhead traction power system, including overhead wires, earthing arrangements, fittings and associated accessories.
To ensure uninterrupted traction power, a comprehensive network of Traction Substations (TSS) and Distribution Substations (DSS) is also being developed along the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High Speed Rail corridor.
OHE masts are vertical steel structures placed alongside railway tracks to support overhead electric wires, maintaining the correct height, alignment and tension required for safe and continuous power supply to electric trains.
Once completed, the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two cities, enhance regional connectivity, and generate wide-ranging benefits for passengers, local economies and Indian industry through job creation and strengthened manufacturing. The project represents a major step towards adopting advanced rail technology and developing world-class rail infrastructure in India.
