In a significant boost to India’s railway infrastructure and RTO, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday December 18, flagged off the second Vande Bharat Express train connecting national capital, New Delhi with the holy city of Varanasi.
This latest addition marks a new chapter in India’s high-speed rail journey And RTO, offering passengers a faster, smoother, and more comfortable travel experience.The train will operate four days a week (Wednesday to Monday) with stops at Prayagraj and Kanpur.
Features of the new Vande Bharat Express:
- Enhanced speed: The train boasts a maximum speed of 180 kmph, significantly reducing travel time between the two cities. Passengers can now reach New Delhi from Varanasi in just 7 hours and 58 minutes, compared to the earlier 8 hours 15 minutes.
- Modern amenities: The train is equipped with cutting-edge features like automatic doors, onboard infotainment systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, and LED lighting. Comfortable reclining seats, spacious luggage racks, and a baby feeding room further enhance the travel experience.
- Improved safety: Equipped with advanced safety features like automatic train protection and CCTV cameras, the train ensures a safe and secure journey for passengers.
PM Modi’s remarks during the flagging off ceremony:
“This is a momentous occasion for Indian Railways and a testament to our commitment to providing world-class travel facilities to our citizens.”
“The Vande Bharat Express is not just a train, but a symbol of India’s progress and innovation. It represents our vision for a modern, efficient, and passenger-centric railway system.”
“This train will not only connect Varanasi and Delhi, but also bring people closer, boost tourism, and fuel economic growth in the region.”
The launch of the second Vande Bharat Express is expected to significantly increase passenger capacity and cater to the growing demand for high-speed rail travel on this popular route. It is expected to further boost tourism and economic activity in the region, particularly in Varanasi, a major pilgrimage center and cultural hub. It also marks a significant step towards India’s ambitious goal of becoming a global leader in high-speed rail technology.