India-Japan bullet train project stalls as delays spark diplomatic friction
India's first high-speed rail, a joint venture with Japan launched a decade ago, still has not carried any passengers and faces further postponement.
Ten years after breaking ground, the planned bullet-train corridor remains unused, with service now slated for next summer using slower trains on a reduced route. A former Japanese minister placed full blame on India, while the International High-Speed Rail Association cited COVID-related setbacks and land-acquisition hurdles. Despite the dispute, an Indian diplomat said the overall pace of bilateral relations outstrips the rail project's progress.
Why it matters
The postponement jeopardizes a high-profile India-Japan partnership and delays a major transport upgrade for millions.
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