** High Speed Trains are the best answer for short distance fast trvel..
** Upto 1000kms, a 350 KMPH HST and Air travel practically take same end to end journey after accounting for checkout time and time taken to reach airports which are far off as compared to Rly stns which are usually located at city center.
** 350kmph HST is an environment friendly option but the huge investment warrants heavy traffic flow to the tune of 1 lacs per day
**...
more... Europe has successfully embarked on the low cost double decker trains operating at 330kmph which is likely to be even more successful in India with much lower per capita income.