PM Narendra Modi to Flag Off Odisha’s First Vande Bharat Express Today, Unveiling the 17th Edition of the High-Speed Train
In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishashna will inaugurate the much-awaited Howrah-Puri Vande Bharat Express today. This marks the commencement of Odisha’s first Vande Bharat train service, which will operate during the day, similar to other routes. The train will depart at 6 am from Howrah and arrive at Puri by 12.30 pm, enabling pilgrims to comfortably reach the Jagannath temple and check into their hotels in a timely manner, according to a senior railway official.
Exciting news for travelers and commuters, as four additional Vande Bharat train services have been announced. These services will connect key routes including Mumbai-Goa, Ranchi-Patna, Guwahati-New Jalpaiguri (approximately six hours), and Delhi-Dehradun (approximately four hours). With the aim of minimizing travel time by avoiding speed restrictions and implementing other measures, the Indian Railways plans to expand the Vande Bharat train network across the country.
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The Vande Bharat trains, known for their semi-high-speed capabilities, typically complete their journeys within four to eight hours. To cater to shorter routes of three to four hours, smaller versions called Vande Metros will be introduced. Moreover, for longer routes exceeding eight hours, a sleeper version of the Vande Bharat train will be available, providing passengers with a comfortable overnight travel option, as informed by railway officials.
With a target to connect 75 cities and towns in India by August 15, 2023, coinciding with the 75th Independence Day celebrations, the Indian Railways is vigorously working towards expanding the Vande Bharat train services. Additionally, the government has formulated an ambitious plan to introduce 400 Vande Bharat trains over the next three years. Notably, Russian company TMH has secured a contract to build 120 sleeper versions of the Vande Bharat train in collaboration with Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd., while a consortium led by BHEL has been entrusted to construct 80 trains of the same type.
