Uttar Pradesh is set to receive a major boost to its railway network with the introduction of two more Vande Bharat Express trains, further enhancing connectivity and travel efficiency within the state. These high-speed trains will connect Agra to Varanasi and Varanasi to Deogarh, bringing the total number of Vande Bharat services operating in Uttar Pradesh to 14. The launch of these trains is anticipated to be marked by a virtual flag-off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 15, from Tatanagar, Jharkhand.
The new Agra Cantt to Varanasi Junction route will cover a distance of 573 kilometres, with an estimated journey time of seven hours. The train will stop at key stations including Tundla Junction, Etawah Junction, Kanpur Central Junction, and Prayagraj Junction. Scheduled to depart from Agra Cantt railway station at 6:00 am, it will reach Varanasi by 1:00 pm. On the return journey, the train will leave Varanasi at 3:20 pm and arrive back in Agra at 10:22 pm, offering travellers a faster and more convenient route between two of Uttar Pradesh’s most significant cities. The Varanasi to Deogarh route will also provide a vital new connection, particularly for devotees visiting Baidyanathdham Deogarh, a significant pilgrimage destination. Presently, there is no direct train service between Varanasi and Deogarh, making this new route a much-needed addition for travellers. Although the Vande Bharat train will terminate at Deogarh Junction, passengers can easily access the Jasidih Junction, just six kilometres away, for further connections.
In another development, the Vande Bharat Express connecting Varanasi and New Delhi via Prayagraj will see an increase in its coach capacity, expanding from 16 to 20 coaches. This enhancement is expected to be launched on September 15, alongside the new train services, to accommodate the growing number of passengers. While the Agra-Varanasi and Varanasi-Deogarh Vande Bharat trains will start with eight coaches each, these additions are expected to significantly improve travel options in the region, offering both speed and comfort. The introduction of more Vande Bharat services reflects Indian Railways’ ongoing commitment to modernising the country’s railway infrastructure and enhancing passenger convenience, particularly during key travel periods.
