India Moves Forward with Hyperloop Technology
After successfully building a 422-meter hyperloop test track, IIT Madras and Indian Railways are now planning a 50-kilometer commercial corridor, according to Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
Next Steps for Hyperloop in India
The government has already provided two grants of $1 million (around ₹9 crore) to IIT Madras for the project. A third grant of $1 million will now be given to further develop the technology.
Once the hyperloop system is fully tested and ready for commercial use, Indian Railways will select a location to build the first commercial project. This 40-50 km corridor will be used for freight transport, helping evaluate how well the technology works.
The hyperloop test track can reach speeds of 1,200 km/h, making it one of the fastest transportation systems in the world.
Hyperloop to Reduce Travel Time
One of the planned routes for hyperloop trains is Delhi to Jaipur, which currently takes about 4 hours and 25 minutes by road or rail. With the hyperloop, this journey could be cut down to just 30 minutes!
Global Hyperloop Projects
India is joining a growing list of eight major hyperloop projects worldwide. One of the leading companies, Virgin Hyperloop, is already testing its system in Nevada, USA.
What is a Hyperloop?
A hyperloop is a high-speed transport system where levitating pods travel through low-pressure tubes at speeds of up to 1,200 km/h.
The concept was first introduced in the 1970s by Swiss professor Marcel Juffer. In 1992, the company Swissmetro SA was formed to develop the idea, but it later shut down in 2009.
Why is Hyperloop Important?
Hyperloop technology has several advantages:
✅ 10 times more energy-efficient than road or air travel
✅ Takes up 2-3 times less space than rail or roads
✅ Shorter travel times than airplanes
With India moving towards commercial hyperloop transportation, the future of high-speed travel looks promising! 🚄
