Three New Vande Bharat Express Trains To Launch on August 10, Fleet Hits 150
The nation’s railway network is set for a strategic expansion with the introduction of three new Vande Bharat Express trains on August 10, bringing the total fleet to 150. These semi-high-speed trains, which are central to the country’s modern transportation agenda, will establish crucial links between pilgrimage destinations and major commercial hubs. This development is a key step towards creating zero-net-carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable urban and regional corridors. By offering a faster and more sustainable travel alternative, these new services are poised to drive economic growth and enhance mobility for a diverse range of travellers across the country.
One of the most anticipated routes is the Amritsar to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra service. This train is specifically designed to cater to the significant number of pilgrims and tourists travelling between the holy city of Amritsar and the base camp for the Vaishno Devi shrine. The launch of this service will provide a comfortable and expedited travel experience for millions of devotees annually, a demographic that often relies on traditional modes of transport. Officials have stated that this Vande Bharat train will operate six days a week, excluding Tuesdays, and will make key stops at Jammu and Jalandhar City, among other locations. The efficient connectivity will not only boost spiritual tourism but also stimulate economic activity in these regions, making travel more accessible for a wider section of the population.
In a move to strengthen regional connectivity and economic integration, two more Vande Bharat trains will be inaugurated. The Belagavi-Bengaluru service in Karnataka is a strategic initiative to link the state’s capital with a growing commercial and industrial city in the north. This express service will significantly reduce travel time, facilitating business travel, student commuting, and general mobility. Similarly, the Nagpur-Pune train in Maharashtra will connect two of the state’s major economic and educational centres. The journey, which traditionally takes over 12 hours, will be completed in a much shorter duration, enhancing business-to-business and interpersonal connections. This focus on connecting secondary cities to primary economic hubs is a vital component of a development model that aims for equitable growth, ensuring that opportunities are not confined to a handful of megacities.
The introduction of these new Vande Bharat trains reinforces the nation’s commitment to building a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation network. As electric multiple-unit (EMU) trains, they produce zero direct carbon emissions, contributing significantly to the country’s pledge to achieve a zero-net-carbon status by 2030. The trains’ aerodynamic design and regenerative braking systems are engineered for superior energy efficiency, making them a greener alternative to traditional diesel locomotives and long-distance road travel. Moreover, the enhanced safety features and modern amenities, such as bio-vacuum toilets, reflect a comprehensive approach to modernisation that prioritises both passenger experience and environmental stewardship. The expansion of this indigenous, high-tech fleet is a powerful statement about the country’s self-reliance and its strategic investment in sustainable infrastructure.
