In a landmark event on September 24th, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated nine Vande Bharat Express trains, connecting diverse destinations across 11 states in India. The introduction of these high-speed trains marks a significant leap forward in the country’s rail transportation system, promising world-class amenities and cutting-edge safety features, including state-of-the-art Kavach technology.
1. Udaipur – Jaipur Vande Bharat Express: Operating six days a week, this train departs from Udaipur at 7:50 am and reaches Jaipur at 2:05 pm. The return journey from Jaipur commences at 3:45 pm, reaching Udaipur at 10:00 pm. The route includes seven stops, with fares starting at ₹1330 for Chair Car and ₹2350 for Executive Chair Car.
2. Hyderabad – Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express: This train operates six days a week, departing from Kacheguda at 5:30 am and reaching Yesvantpur Junction at 2:00 pm. The return journey starts at 2:45 pm, reaching Kacheguda at 11:15 pm. The route comprises four stops, with fares beginning at ₹1600 for Chair Car and ₹2915 for Executive Chair Car.
3. Jamnagar-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat Express: Running six days a week, this train departs from Jamnagar at 5:30 am, arriving in Ahmedabad at 10:10 am. The return journey starts from Ahmedabad, with stops at various stations, and fares at ₹955 for Chair Car and ₹1790 for Executive Chair Car.
4. Vijayawada – Chennai (via Renigunta) Vande Bharat Express: Departing at 3:20 pm, this train arrives in Chennai at 10:00 pm. Fares for this route start at ₹1420 for Chair Car and ₹2630 for Executive Chair Car. It operates six days a week, excluding Tuesdays.
5. Patna – Howrah Vande Bharat Express: Operating between Patna and Howrah, this train departs at 8:00 am and reaches its destination at 2:35 pm. Fares begin at ₹1505 for Chair Car and ₹2725 for Executive Chair Car. The route encompasses several key stops, with regular service starting on September 26th.
6. Kasaragod – Thiruvananthapuram Vande Bharat Express: Departing from Kasaragod at 2:30 pm and Thiruvananthapuram CNTL at 5:20 am, this train connects the northernmost and southernmost districts of Kerala. Operating six days a week (excluding Thursdays), it provides a vital transportation link for the state.
7. Rourkela-Bhubaneswar – Puri Vande Bharat Express: This train, operating between Rourkela and Puri, departs at 2:10 pm and arrives at 9:40 pm. Fares start at ₹1410 for Chair Car and ₹2595 for Executive Chair Car. It serves several key stations, enhancing connectivity in Odisha.
8. Ranchi-Howrah Vande Bharat Express: Connecting Ranchi and Howrah, this train departs from Ranchi at 5:15 am and reaches Howrah at 12:20 pm. Fares for this route begin at ₹1155 for Chair Car and ₹2200 for Executive Chair Car. It operates six days a week, with strategic stops along the way.
9. Tirunelveli-Madurai-Chennai Vande Bharat Express: Departing from Tirunelveli at 6:00 am and Chennai at 2:50 pm, this train connects these major cities. Fares start at ₹1665 for Chair Car and ₹3055 for Executive Chair Car. Operating six days a week (except Tuesdays), it serves various crucial stations.
The introduction of these Vande Bharat Express trains signifies a substantial advancement in India’s railway system, with a strong emphasis on enhancing passenger comfort, increasing speed, and ensuring safety. These high-speed trains are positioned to be advantageous not just for daily travellers but also for the tourism and business industries, providing streamlined connectivity throughout the nation.
Leading up to the inauguration, Congress MP Rajmohan Unnithan stressed that these trains are a communal asset, highlighting the significance of fair and equal access to transportation services. Union Minister of State V Muraleedharan reassured that Kerala would receive its due share of Vande Bharat trains, highlighting the government’s commitment to regional development.
The launch of these trains represents a new era in India’s railway system, enhancing connectivity and promoting economic growth while meeting the needs of the modern traveller. As the nation continues to invest in its transportation infrastructure, the Vande Bharat Express trains symbolize a leap toward a more efficient and connected India.
Watch: PM Modi’s speech at flagging off nine Vande Bharat Express
