India's first dedicated high-speed test track in Rajasthan is nearing completion, set to enable train trials at speeds of up to 220 kmph starting 2027-28.

  • India's first dedicated high-speed test track is being built in the Jodhpur Division, Rajasthan.
  • The facility will allow testing of trains at speeds up to 220 kmph.
  • The project, costing ₹967.07 crore, is being developed by the RDSO.
  • Advanced testing for Vande Bharat and other rolling stocks is expected to begin in 2027-28.

In a massive boost to India's rail infrastructure, the Indian Railways' first dedicated high-speed test track is approaching its final stages of completion. This landmark project, located in the Nawa region of the Jodhpur Division between Gudha and Thathana Mithri, is designed to revolutionize how trains are tested and validated in the country.

Developed by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) at an investment of ₹967.07 crore, the 59 km Broad Gauge (BG) track is situated approximately 70 km from Jaipur. This facility falls under the administrative control of the North Western Railway (NWR) and is poised to place India among an elite group of nations with international-standard testing capabilities.

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Technical Specifications and Infrastructure

The project is a complex engineering feat, comprising a 23-km main line, a 13-km high-speed loop at Gudha, a 3-km accelerated testing loop at Nawa, and a 20-km curve testing loop at Mithri. Additionally, a 4.5-km twisted track for static testing of rolling stock has already been commissioned.

The infrastructure includes seven major bridges, 129 minor bridges, and four dedicated stations: Gudha, Jabdinagar, Nawa, and Mithri. Recent modifications to the Kyosan electronic interlocking system at Gudha Station have ensured that the track meets the highest safety guidelines for high-speed operations.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this facility is a strategic necessity for India's transition toward high-speed rail. By providing a controlled environment to test not just trains, but also track materials, bridges, traction distribution (TRD) equipment, and signaling systems, India reduces its reliance on foreign testing facilities. Upon completion, India will be the first country to possess comprehensive testing facilities for rolling stock meeting UIC-518/EN-14363 international standards.

This dedicated track will enable Indian Railways to adopt new technologies faster and significantly improve the performance of its rolling stock.

According to Amit Sudarshan, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NWR, the testing and trials of various types of rolling stock, including the prestigious Vande Bharat trainsets, are expected to commence during the 2027-28 period.

Did You Know?: This test track will not only test trains but also evaluate geotechnical parameters and the durability of railway bridges under high-speed stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the maximum speed allowed on the new test track?
The track is designed to facilitate testing at speeds of up to 220 kmph.

2. When will the testing of Vande Bharat trains begin on this track?
Trials for semi-high-speed trainsets like Vande Bharat are expected to start in 2027-28.