The Chennai–Hyderabad bullet train project has taken a major step forward, with South Central Railway submitting the final alignment details to the Tamil Nadu government for incorporation into the Detailed Project Report (DPR). Officials said the DPR is expected to be finalized within a month once the state’s approval is received.The proposed 778-km high-speed corridor will now include a new station at Tirupati to serve the large number of pilgrims and travellers. Tamil Nadu will host two stations along the route: Chennai Central and a new high-speed rail station near Minjur.
When operational, the bullet train is expected to reduce travel time between Chennai and Hyderabad to about 2 hours and 20 minutes, compared to 12–14 hours by conventional trains and 8–9 hours by road.
Survey operations and preliminary planning for land acquisition are already underway. Key details include:
223.44 hectares of land required in Tamil Nadu
No forest land affected
An 11.6-km tunnel proposed
Several crossings with highways and utility lines identified
The project is part of India’s broader high-speed rail vision, aimed at transforming intercity travel with modern infrastructure, advanced technology, and significantly reduced transit times.
Once the Tamil Nadu government grants approval, the DPR will be completed quickly, clearing the path for the next stages of construction.
This ambitious project is expected to boost regional connectivity, support economic growth, and provide a fast, safe, and modern travel option for passengers across South India.