A high-speed train project has been envisioned to connect Vishakhapatnam and shamshabad (Hyderabad Airport), potentially reducing the travel time from the current 10-11 hours to just 4.30 hours. The proposed train, running at a speed of 220 km per hour, aims to enhance connectivity and convenience for commuters traveling between these two cities. However, the estimated cost for this ambitious project exceeds Rs. 20 thousand crores, with the likelihood of an increase as the project progresses from the planning stage.
The Preliminary Engineering and Traffic (PET) survey, focused on engineering aspects and route selection, is set to be completed by March. Subsequently, a comprehensive survey, Detailed Project Report (DPR), will be undertaken, accounting for passenger traffic on existing routes, as well as anticipated demand for the proposed high-speed train. The DPR survey is expected to take an additional 6-8 months.
Currently, the journey from secunderabad to Visakhapatnam takes 12-13 hours, with 10 regular trains and 12 weekly trains operating daily. The daily commuter count exceeds 25 thousand, and an additional 30 thousand people travel via weekly trains. The shamshabad Airport witnesses around 55 thousand passengers daily, with approximately 10 thousand being international travellers.
The proposed high-speed train is envisioned as a solution to meet the growing transportation needs of air passengers, connecting shamshabad Airport with Vishakhapatnam. If the project progresses as planned, a high-speed train could be operational within five years, significantly reducing travel times between the telugu states.
Engineering circles suggest considering an elevated corridor for the high-speed rail to optimize efficiency. However, the construction cost could double if an elevated corridor is chosen, prompting the need for careful evaluation between constructing the corridor on the ground or opting for an elevated structure. Decisions in this regard are anticipated to be made following the completion of the DPR survey.
