Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), a unit under Ministry of Railways has partnered with IIT Madras to establish a Centre of Excellence for Hyperloop technology with funding of Rs. 20.89 crore. This groundbreaking step aims to develop a subscale model, test track, and vacuum tube, making India at the forefront of next-gen transportation innovation and sustainable high-speed travel.
Strategic Collaboration for Hyperloop Advancement:
The Ministry of Railways, has signed an MoU through RDSO with IIT Madras to propel Hyperloop technology development, the next generation mobility solution. A funding allocation of Rs. 20.89 crore will support the creation and establishment of a Centre of Excellence focused on designing a pod, test track, and vacuum tube.
India’s Rising Influence in Hyperloop Ecosystem:
- IIT Madras has been a pioneering institution in hyperloop research for over seven years.
- With a 422-meter-long student-run test track at its Discovery Campus, it hosts the longest operational hyperloop setup in the country.
- IIT Madras also recently organized Asia’s first Global Hyperloop Competition, with support from the Ministry of Railways.
Innovation through Indigenous Startups:
- TuTr Hyperloop, a deep-tech startup incubated at IIT Madras, is poised to roll out the world’s first commercial hyperloop-based project in India.
- The initiative aligns with national missions such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047, emphasizing indigenous innovation and self-reliance in advanced transportation technologies.
A Glimpse into Hyperloop Technology:
Hyperloop represents the fifth mode of transport, capable of achieving speeds beyond 1,000 km/h using a near-vacuum tube to minimize air resistance. First conceptualized by Elon Musk in 2013, hyperloop aims to revolutionize travel by offering faster, cleaner, and more energy-efficient mobility solutions for the future.
Conclusion:
The Indian Railways’ partnership with IIT Madras is a bold step toward revolutionizing future mobility. With research, innovation, and funding aligned, India is set to play a key role in the global hyperloop race. This collaboration signifies a new chapter in sustainable, high-speed transportation under the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): IIT-Madras
