India's Hyperloop Initiative
India is poised to become one of the first countries to develop a long-distance hyperloop system, with the Ministry of Railways approving a 40-kilometre project. This marks significant progress towards the nation's goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047.
Technological Development
- The project is currently evaluating three technologies, including magnetic levitation.
- The electronics technology will be developed at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, leveraging research from IIT Madras (IIT-M).
TuTr Hyperloop and Collaboration
TuTr Hyperloop, a startup incubated at IIT-M, is set to launch the world’s first commercial hyperloop project in India. The Ministry has approved ₹8.34 crore funding to IIT-M for developing and validating the hyperloop system.
Railways Minister's Visit to IIT Madras
- Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited IIT Madras' hyperloop facility, which has the longest operational student-run hyperloop test tube and track (422 meters).
- He highlighted the promising results from ongoing tests and assured continuous support for the project.
International Context
Similar hyperloop prototypes are being developed worldwide, in locations such as Toulouse (France), Abu Dhabi, Great Lakes, Hamburg, and Venice.
Conclusion
Hyperloop is acclaimed as a sustainable, fast, and cost-effective next-generation transportation technology.