Prime Minister Narendra Modi Flags Off Vande Bharat Express

In a significant stride towards advancing rail connectivity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ceremoniously flagged off the Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express train from Varanasi on Monday. The inaugural event also marked the launch of the Dohrighat-Mau MEMU train and a pair of Long Haul goods trains at the newly inaugurated dedicated freight corridor.

The launch of the Vande Bharat Express from Varanasi is poised to be a game-changer for travelers heading to Prayagraj, Kanpur, and New Delhi, offering an additional fast and modern travel option. The initiative not only promises time efficiency for passengers but also holds the potential to accelerate cultural, industrial, and economic development in the region.

Starting its journey from the spiritual city of Varanasi, the Vande Bharat Express will traverse through Prayagraj and Kanpur before reaching its final destination, New Delhi. The service is anticipated to particularly benefit pilgrims en route to Prayagraj and professionals commuting between the industrial hub of Kanpur and the bustling metropolis of New Delhi.

Regular operations of the Vande Bharat Express are scheduled to commence on December 20, 2023. Departing from Varanasi at 6:00 AM, the train will make stops at Prayagraj at 07:34 AM, Kanpur Central at 09:30 AM, and finally, New Delhi at 2:05 PM.

The return journey will see the train departing from New Delhi at 3:00 PM, reaching Kanpur Central at 7:12 PM, Prayagraj at 9:15 PM, and concluding its journey in Varanasi at 11:05 PM.

The Vande Bharat Express is designed to minimize travel time between cities, providing passengers with a swift and comfortable journey. As a modern semi-high-speed train, it represents a major leap for Indian Railways in terms of superior designs, interiors, and speed, offering passengers an experience akin to air travel.

This self-propelled, semi-high-speed train set, made indigenously under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, incorporates fully suspended traction motors for high operational speed. The state-of-the-art suspension system ensures a smooth and safe journey, enhancing riding comfort for passengers.

The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express signifies a commitment to advancing rail connectivity and enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers across the region.