India is poised to enter an elite global league in railway technology with its first dedicated high-speed test track, scheduled to be fully operational by March 2026. This landmark infrastructure project, being developed in the Jodhpur division of Rajasthan, represents a significant leap forward for the country's rail engineering capabilities.
A Mega Project Taking Shape in the Desert
The ambitious 64-kilometer track is being constructed with a substantial investment of Rs 967 crore. Railway officials report that the work is progressing in two phases on the stretch between Gudha and Thathana Mithri, located approximately 70 kilometers from Jaipur. Significant headway has already been made, with about 58 kilometers of the track completed to date.
A Unique Global Facility for Comprehensive Testing
Upon completion, this facility will catapult India into a unique position. A senior official highlighted that India will become the first country to possess such comprehensive testing facilities for rolling stock that meet stringent international standards, specifically the UIC-518 and EN-14363 norms. These are the key global benchmarks defining methods for testing and approving the dynamics of railway vehicles.
The official emphasized the track's global uniqueness, noting that "most existing test tracks elsewhere in the world are shorter than this 64-km length." This extensive length is crucial for rigorous, real-world condition testing.
Beyond Speed: A Holistic Testing Ecosystem
The primary function of the track will be to test high-speed rolling stock manufactured both in India and worldwide at speeds of up to 220 kmph. However, its scope extends far beyond just speed trials. The project is developing a full suite of testing facilities for high-speed trains and their components.
The comprehensive testing will include:
- Stability and safety parameter assessments.
- Crash resistance evaluations.
- Overall rolling stock quality checks.
- Testing of track materials and bridge designs.
- Validation of traction distribution equipment and signalling gear.
- Geotechnical studies.
The infrastructure itself is massive, featuring 7 major bridges, 129 minor bridges, and 4 stations. A key design advantage is the inclusion of various curved sections. This will allow engineers to conduct trials for high-speed trains navigating curves without the need to slow down, simulating actual operational conditions. The curves are designed for both lower and higher speeds, adding to the versatility of the testing.
The operationalization of this dedicated test track is set to transform India's railway sector. It will not only ensure the safety and reliability of future high-speed trains but also establish the country as a self-reliant, world-class hub for railway technology research, development, and certification.
