STN: India’s ambitious high-speed rail vision is moving from planning to execution. Out of the seven High-Speed Rail Corridors in India announced in the Union Budget 2026, Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for six corridors have already been submitted to the Ministry of Railways. The remaining corridor, Varanasi–Siliguri, is still under preparation.
The groundwork for these corridors is not new. Planning has been underway for nearly two to four years. During this period, agencies carried out LiDAR-based aerial surveys, traffic demand studies, environmental impact assessments, and social impact evaluations. Alignment designs were also finalised across thousands of kilometres. This extensive preparation highlights the seriousness of the government’s high-speed rail roadmap.
According to officials, the DPR submissions were made by National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) to the Ministry of Railways. These reports form the backbone for future approvals, funding decisions, and phased construction.
High-Speed Rail Corridors in India: Current Status
Each corridor is progressing at a different pace, based on regional complexity and planning timelines.
Mumbai–Pune–Hyderabad Corridor
This 767-kilometre corridor has its DPR submitted. Surveys are still ongoing. Proposed stations include Navi Mumbai, Lonavala, Pune, Solapur, Kalaburagi, Zaheerabad, and Hyderabad. The corridor aims to connect key financial and industrial hubs across Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana.
Hyderabad–Bengaluru Corridor
Stretching 618 kilometres, this corridor received survey approval in September 2025. It is planned as an extension of the Mumbai–Hyderabad high-speed rail spine. Once completed, it will significantly reduce travel time between two major technology and business centres.
Hyderabad–Chennai Corridor
This 778-kilometre route has reached an advanced stage. The final alignment was submitted in November 2025. The alignment was revised to include Tirupati, a major pilgrimage centre. The DPR is now close to finalisation.
Chennai–Bengaluru Corridor
For this busy southern route, LiDAR and land surveys are complete up to Kolar. Environmental studies were finalised by March 2024. This corridor is expected to ease congestion on one of India’s most travelled intercity routes.
Delhi–Varanasi Corridor
This is the most advanced project among all High-Speed Rail Corridors in India. The DPR was submitted as early as October 2020. The corridor spans 958 kilometres, with an additional spur to Ayodhya. The estimated project cost stands at ₹1.71 lakh crore.
Varanasi–Siliguri Corridor
This is the newest eastern corridor. Surveys and preparatory work are in early stages. Unlike other corridors, its DPR is still under development. Once completed, it will improve connectivity across eastern India.
Why These High-Speed Rail Corridors Matter
High-speed rail will transform long-distance travel in India. It will cut travel time sharply. And will boost regional economies. It will also reduce pressure on roads and airports. The corridors are designed to connect metros, tier-2 cities, and cultural hubs.
FAQs
A: The goal is to reduce travel time, improve connectivity, and support economic growth across regions.
A: While exact speeds vary, high-speed trains typically operate above 250 km/h.
A: Construction timelines will be announced after DPR approvals, funding clearance, and land acquisition.
A: Environmental impact studies are already part of the planning process to minimise ecological damage.
A: Yes. The corridors are planned with integration points for metro, conventional rail, and road transport.