New Delhi: In her Union Budget 2026–27 presentation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a major push for India’s rail infrastructure, unveiling plans to develop seven high-speed rail corridors linking key cities across the country. The initiative aims to create “growth connectors” that enhance regional connectivity while promoting environmentally sustainable passenger transport systems.
The high-speed corridors are expected to redefine intercity travel, reducing journey times and supporting economic growth along their routes. According to Sitharaman, the proposed corridors will connect:
• Mumbai – Pune
• Hyderabad – Pune
• Hyderabad – Bengaluru
• Chennai – Bengaluru
• Delhi – Varanasi
• Varanasi – Siliguri
These corridors are envisioned not just as transportation projects, but as catalysts for regional development, creating hubs of economic activity, generating employment, and enhancing industrial and urban planning opportunities along their routes.
Sitharaman emphasized that the corridors will be environmentally sustainable, incorporating modern green technologies and energy-efficient systems to reduce the carbon footprint of long-distance passenger travel. The move aligns with India’s broader vision of integrated infrastructure growth and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions targets in the transportation sector.
Industry experts say that the development of seven high-speed rail corridors could transform mobility in India, making rail travel competitive with air travel, stimulating investment in adjacent regions, and strengthening domestic manufacturing for rail technology and components.
The announcement underscores the government’s intent to modernize India’s transportation network, enhance urban-rural connectivity, and position the country as a global leader in high-speed rail technology.