Indian Railways has announced the extension of two crucial weekly special train services. These extensions, without alteration to existing schedules or routes, underscore the growing emphasis on enhancing passenger convenience and facilitating inter-regional access. The extended services, linking Yesvantpur with Yog Nagari Rishikesh and Chhapra with MCTM Udhampur, reflect a commitment to leveraging rail infrastructure for broader socio-economic and environmental benefits, crucial for developing zero net carbon and equitable urban ecosystems.
The Yesvantpur – Yog Nagari Rishikesh Weekly Summer Special (06597/06598), initially slated to conclude on July 10, 2025, will now operate until August 30, 2025. This significant extension adds eight additional trips in each direction, providing vital connectivity between Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The train’s continued operation on its established path, departing Yesvantpur every Thursday and Yog Nagari Rishikesh every Saturday, offers a dependable and eco-friendly alternative for travellers, particularly those venturing to the spiritual and scenic landscapes of the Himalayas. This sustained service promotes domestic tourism while reducing reliance on more carbon-intensive modes of transport.
Similarly, the Chhapra – MCTM Udhampur Weekly Summer Special (05193/05194) has seen its operational period extended until July 28, 2025, for departures from Chhapra, and July 30, 2025, for those from Udhampur. Two additional trips in each direction will facilitate travel between Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. This route is particularly significant for enhancing accessibility to both pilgrimage sites and key economic centres across northern India. By extending these services, Indian Railways is not only addressing peak season demand but also reinforcing the role of rail as a backbone for inclusive growth and regional integration.
The strategic extension of these services aligns seamlessly with the vision for sustainable and gender-neutral cities. Rail transport inherently boasts a lower carbon footprint per passenger-kilometre compared to road or air travel, contributing directly to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality in urban and inter-urban corridors. By providing reliable and affordable long-distance connectivity, these trains enhance accessibility for diverse demographic segments, including women, senior citizens, and individuals from lower-income groups, who often rely on public transport for essential travel. This improved accessibility fosters greater economic participation and social equity, enabling individuals to pursue educational, employment, and healthcare opportunities previously constrained by limited travel options.
Furthermore, the expansion of such critical rail links can catalyse regional economic development around the various halts. Stations along these extended routes, spanning multiple states, become nodal points for commerce and community interaction. The predictability and efficiency of rail travel encourage a shift away from private vehicle reliance, thereby mitigating urban congestion and reducing the strain on road infrastructure. This systematic enhancement of rail networks is a pivotal component in building resilient, eco-friendly urban agglomerations where efficient public transit is not merely a convenience but a cornerstone of equitable and sustainable living.
Also Read: Mumbai–Berhampur Vande Bharat Stranded Seven Hours Near Keonjhar due Rain
