India is taking significant strides towards modernising its rail infrastructure with the construction of the country’s first dedicated railway test track in Rajasthan. The track, spanning 60 kilometres, is set to be completed by December 2025 and will be used for testing various rolling stock, including high-speed trains. This will mark a milestone in India’s railway modernization journey, enabling comprehensive testing of trains at speeds up to 230 km/h, including bullet trains.
The Project’s Scope and Progress
Located between Gudha and Thathana Mithdi in the Nawa area of Jodhpur Division, Rajasthan, the test track is strategically designed to evaluate trains on both straight and curved sections. Some curves are designed for high-speed testing, while others focus on low-speed manoeuvres. The track will serve as a comprehensive testing facility for train stability, safety, speed, and other critical performance parameters.
The project is being developed in two phases. Phase 1, approved in December 2018, was followed by Phase 2, approved in November 2021. As of now, 27 kilometres of the track have been completed, and the full 60-kilometre track is expected to be operational by December 2025. The total cost of the project is estimated at Rs 820 crore.
Key Features of the Track
The dedicated test track will include various components, such as seven large bridges, 129 small bridges, and four stations at Gudha, Jabdinagar, Nawan, and Mithadi. The track is designed with advanced technology to ensure vibration resistance, especially on bridges, using RCC and steel materials to handle the high-speed movement of trains. Additionally, special construction techniques have been used to make the track suitable for the region’s alkaline environment, ensuring the steel does not rust.
Test Loops and Infrastructure
The track will feature several testing loops, including a 13-kilometre high-speed loop in Gudha, a 3-kilometre quick testing loop in Nawa station, and a 20-kilometre curve testing loop in Meethadi. These loops will simulate various real-world conditions to assess the performance of trains on curves, bad tracks, and different speed conditions. The test track also includes a 7-kilometre twisty track to simulate the effects of vibrations and jolts when trains pass over imperfect tracks.
Benefits and Future Prospects
The establishment of this dedicated test track will eliminate the need to conduct trials on busy regular tracks, which often causes delays and disruptions to the normal train schedule. In the future, not only will high-speed bullet trains be tested, but also semi-high-speed trains, metro trains, and various coach types. The Resource Design Standard Organization (RDSO) of the Indian Railways will oversee the trials, ensuring that all parameters of the rolling stock are rigorously checked.
This test track is poised to play a crucial role in enhancing the safety, speed, and efficiency of Indian Railways, marking a new chapter in the country’s rail transport development. Additionally, the facility will be open to neighbouring countries, offering them the opportunity to test their own trains and contribute to regional railway advancements.
