India to unveil Vande Bharat-4, next-gen high-tech trains matching Japan and Europe by 2047

National News: Indian Railways has moved from being just a manufacturer to becoming an exporter of world-class trains. Countries like Africa and Australia are now seeking engines and coaches made in India. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a new era of innovation, showcasing India’s ability to compete with global leaders in the field of high-speed and premium rail technology.

Exhibition showcases future-ready network

At the 16th International Rail Equipment Exhibition in Bharat Mandapam, the minister highlighted India’s rail growth. Over 450 companies from 15 countries displayed advanced railway products, metro solutions, and technology. The event’s theme “Future-Ready Railways” reflects India’s determination to modernize transport. It also underlines the government’s focus on creating a system that meets global standards in speed and safety.

Passenger corridors by 2047 announced

The government has planned nearly 7,000 km of passenger-dedicated corridors by 2047, with trains designed to run at 350 kmph and operate at 320 kmph. These networks will feature indigenous signaling systems and advanced operation control centers. The announcement reflects India’s larger vision of building infrastructure capable of supporting both economic growth and international competitiveness in passenger mobility.

Vande Bharat-4 to set benchmarks

Minister Vaishnaw called Vande Bharat a big success, saying it already rivals some of the world’s best trains. The upcoming Vande Bharat-4, set to arrive within 18 months, promises improved performance and passenger comfort. Features like better toilets, upgraded seats, and higher-quality coaches will bring the train on par with Japanese and European high-speed models.

Amrit Bharat trains evolve too

Alongside Vande Bharat, the Amrit Bharat series is also progressing. The current version runs on push-pull technology, and the upcoming Amrit Bharat-4 will include next-generation locomotives and trainsets within three years. These will be optimized for long-distance travel, ensuring passengers experience higher efficiency and comfort. This demonstrates Indian Railways’ parallel focus on both premium and everyday travel solution.

Rail growth and modernization drive

In the past 11 years, India has laid 35,000 km of new lines and electrified 46,000 km of railways. At present, 156 Vande Bharat, 30 Amrit Bharat, and 4 Namo Bharat trains operate. In FY 2024-25, a record production of 7,000+ coaches, 42,000 wagons, and 1,681 locomotives was achieved. The launch of India’s first 9,000 HP locomotive underlined the modernization success.

India’s global railway ambitions rise

Indian Railways has now become the world’s second-largest freight network, surpassing the US. Bullet train projects and dedicated freight corridors are nearing completion, with 99 percent progress already achieved. With a ₹1.16 lakh crore budget focusing on innovation and safety, including the indigenous Kavach system, India is positioning its railways as a global benchmark, not just for today but for decades ahead.