Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated three new Vandhe Bharat Express trains, further expanding India’s semi-high-speed rail network. The trains will operate on the following routes: Meerut – Lucknow, Madurai – Bengaluru, and Chennai – Nagercoil. The launch, which took place via video conferencing, marks a significant step in improving travel efficiency and connectivity across these regions.
Key Highlights
Meerut – Lucknow Vande Bharat Express:
Inauguration: The train will commence operations from Lucknow on Sunday, with service starting from Meerut City Junction on Monday.
Schedule: Running six days a week (with Tuesday as a rest day), the train departs from Lucknow at 2:45 PM and from Meerut at 6:35 AM.
Significance: This route will save passengers approximately one hour of travel time compared to the current fastest train, offering quicker access to popular pilgrimage sites like Digambar Jain Temple and Mansa Devi Mandir.
Chennai Egmore – Nagercoil Vande Bharat Express:
Route: Covering 726 km, this train is the first Vande Bharat service connecting Chennai with the scenic town of Nagercoil.
Schedule: Train No. 20627 departs from Chennai Egmore at 5:00 AM, reaching Nagercoil at 1:50 PM. The return train, No. 20628, leaves Nagercoil at 2:20 PM and arrives in Chennai at 11:00 PM.
Impact: Residents of 12 districts in Tamil Nadu will benefit from faster travel times, enhancing connectivity across the state.
Madurai – Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express:
Schedule: Operating six days a week, the train leaves Madurai at 5:15 AM and arrives at Bengaluru Cantonment at 1:00 PM. The return journey departs from Bengaluru at 1:30 PM, reaching Madurai at 9:45 PM.
Stoppages: Key stops include Dindigul, Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Namakkal, Salem, and Krishnarajapuram.
Significance:
These Vandhe Bharat trains are a testament to the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, showcasing India’s strides in modern rail technology. With advanced amenities and faster travel times, these trains are set to redefine rail travel for regular commuters, professionals, business travelers, and students alike.
The Vandhe Bharat Express, first launched in February 2019, continues to revolutionize India’s railway network, offering a blend of speed, comfort, and convenience across major cities.
