India has pushed back against claims of friction with Japan over the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project, saying discussions between the two countries are moving ahead smoothly. Officials said the bilateral engagement remains aligned and that reports suggesting a serious disagreement do not reflect the current status of talks.
The clarification came after comments from a former Japanese minister reportedly raised concerns about delays and the pace of decisions on the flagship bullet train corridor. In response, India maintained that the project continues to be handled through ongoing coordination with Japan and that the broader partnership has not broken down.
According to the government’s position, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor remains on course even as choices are being made about rolling stock and implementation. India has indicated that an indigenous train will be used initially, while engagement with Japan on the high-speed rail program continues.
The statement is aimed at calming speculation around one of India’s most closely watched transport infrastructure projects. By rejecting talk of a rift, New Delhi has signaled that cooperation with Japan on the bullet train initiative remains intact, with discussions still progressing through official channels.
