In a groundbreaking development for India’s transportation sector, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, in collaboration with the Ministry of Railways, has unveiled the country’s first hyperloop test track. This state-of-the-art facility, measuring 422 meters in length, promises to revolutionize travel between major cities, reducing the journey from Delhi to Jaipur to a mere 30 minutes.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared the exciting news on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering innovation through collaboration with academic institutions. The hyperloop technology, often referred to as the “fifth mode of transport,” involves high-speed trains traveling in near-vacuum tubes, significantly reducing air resistance and allowing speeds of over 1,000 km/h.
The hyperloop project at @iitmadras; Government-academia collaboration is driving innovation in futuristic transportation. pic.twitter.com/S1r1wirK5o
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) February 24, 2025
The hyperloop project at IIT Madras is a testament to India’s growing prowess in futuristic transportation technologies. The test track, funded by the Ministry of Railways, is expected to pave the way for commercial hyperloop projects across the country. Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “This will prove to be a very important step in promoting modern and innovative changes in the means of travel”.
The hyperloop system’s potential to cover 350 km in just 30 minutes could transform the way people travel between Delhi and Jaipur, a distance of approximately 300 km. This advancement not only promises to enhance connectivity between major urban centers but also positions India at the forefront of innovative transportation solutions on the global stage.
As the hyperloop technology continues to develop, the Indian Railways plans to undertake the first commercial project soon. The successful implementation of this technology could revolutionize India’s transportation infrastructure, offering ultra-fast, efficient, and sustainable travel options.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development in India’s transportation landscape.
