New Delhi, Oct. 20 -- Imagine reaching Varanasi from Delhi in under four hours or travelling between Mumbai and Pune in less than an hour. These shorter journeys could become possible as Indian Railways moves ahead with plans for seven new high-speed rail corridors across the country.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the proposed corridors while presenting the Union Budget earlier this year. The projects are intended to improve connectivity between major cities, support economic growth and offer passengers faster travel options.

The announcement comes amid Indian Railways' broader efforts to upgrade passenger services, including the introduction of Vande Bharat sleeper trains. These trains are designed to improve overnight ...