Branson deal for world-first 200mph trains

SIR Richard Branson has struck a deal that could make India the first country to operate super-fast ‘hyperloop’ trains.

The billionaire said the highspeed technology – using electricity to propel pods through tubes at more than 200mph – could link Mumbai and Pune as early as 2025.

Virgin Hyperloop One is already testing at a US site near Las Vegas, and it would carry out a feasibility study in India. If successful, the hyperloop could take 150million passengers a year the 90 miles from Mumbai to Pune in just 25 minutes.

A UK hyperloop would take 14 minutes from London to Birmingham – but officials say safety concerns and issues with infrastructure mean it would be at least 20 years away.