Delhi-Mumbai in 12 hours? Railways is racing to make this train journey much faster

Speed Surge

Delhi-Mumbai train travel could be heading for a major time cut as Indian Railways upgrades the route for speeds of up to 160 kmph. The larger goal is to bring the journey closer to the 12-hour mark, potentially reshaping one of India’s busiest rail corridors. (Representative pic)

Power Upgrade

A new 2×25 kV traction substation at Chhata has been charged as part of the high-speed push on the Palwal-Mathura section. The 84-route-km stretch is getting upgraded power systems, overhead equipment and other infrastructure needed for faster trains. (Representative pic)

Track Overhaul

This is far more than simply putting faster trains on existing tracks. Railways is upgrading signalling, telecom systems, yards, overhead equipment and additional lines, with work at Mathura and Bhuteshwar aimed at creating an infrastructure backbone for higher-speed operations. (Representative pic)

Remote Control

The upgraded route will also get SCADA technology, allowing railway officials to remotely monitor and control the power supply from the Agra control hub. The system could make managing a complex high-speed corridor faster and more responsive when trains are moving at higher speeds. (Representative pic)

September Deadline

Railways has set September 30, 2026 as the target for completing key works, with several substations already charged and others moving towards final testing. If the timeline holds, another major piece of the Delhi-Mumbai speed upgrade will be in place. (Representative pic)