Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Varanasi, significantly enhancing rail connectivity across India. These modern, semi-high-speed trains are set to revolutionize travel on key routes, including Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru. The launch marks a substantial stride in the nation’s pursuit of world-class railway infrastructure, promising reduced travel times, increased passenger comfort, and boosted economic activity.
The Prime Minister emphasized the crucial role of infrastructure development in national progress, likening the “festival of development” to the recent Dev Deepawali celebrations. He articulated that improved connectivity is a fundamental driver of urban and economic growth, extending beyond physical structures to encompass the seamless movement of people and goods. The new Vande Bharat services are expected to invigorate regional economies, promote tourism to heritage sites like Khajuraho, and facilitate easier commutes for daily travelers and pilgrims.
Specifically, the Banaras–Khajuraho route will connect significant cultural and religious centers, reducing travel time by nearly three hours. The Lucknow–Saharanpur line will enhance connectivity in Uttar Pradesh, benefiting cities like Bareilly and Moradabad. The Firozpur–Delhi train offers the fastest service on its route, linking Punjab’s border regions with the national capital and fostering commerce. In the South, the Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat will streamline travel between major hubs in Kerala and Karnataka, bolstering business and tourism.
The launch event in Varanasi was accompanied by extensive security measures and public engagement, with the Prime Minister interacting with schoolchildren and addressing the gathering. The introduction of these four trains adds to the growing fleet of Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat, and Amrit Bharat trains, collectively shaping a new era for Indian Railways.