The Union Budget 2026 has announced major high-speed rail projects that promise to transform travel in India. At a cost of ₹16 lakh crore, seven High-Speed Rail Corridors covering 4,000 km will be developed. Chennai has emerged as a key beneficiary with two routes—Chennai–Bengaluru and Chennai–Hyderabad. Travel time between Chennai and Bengaluru will reduce from over six hours to just 1.5 hours, while Chennai–Hyderabad will take only about three hours. These trains are expected to run at speeds of up to 300 kmph. The projects are expected to significantly boost economic growth, industrial development, and tourism across southern India.
~ED.447~
