Rajasthan Launches Two New Vande Bharat Express Trains To Delhi
Rajasthan is set to enhance its rail connectivity with the introduction of two new Vande Bharat Express trains linking Jodhpur and Bikaner directly to Delhi Cantt. Officials confirmed that the semi-high-speed trains will significantly reduce travel times by over an hour while providing a comfortable and modern travel experience for passengers. The launch is scheduled for September 25, with senior railway authorities expected to inaugurate the services.
The Jodhpur-Delhi Vande Bharat Express will depart from Jodhpur at 5:30 am, reaching Delhi Cantt by 1:30 pm. The return service leaves Delhi at 3:10 pm, arriving back in Jodhpur at 11:15 pm. Key stops include Degana, Makrana, Jaipur, and Alwar. Meanwhile, the Bikaner-Delhi Vande Bharat Express is scheduled to depart Bikaner at 5:45 am, reaching Delhi by 11:50 am, and returning at 4:45 pm to arrive at Bikaner by 11:00 pm, with stops at Ratangarh, Churu, and Rewari.
Officials from the North Western Railway zone, responsible for operating and maintaining these trains, emphasised that the new routes will improve regional connectivity, support economic activity, and enhance passenger experience. A modern maintenance depot is being established near Bhagat Ki Kothi Station in Jodhpur to support the upkeep of these semi-high-speed trains.Rajasthan currently operates four Vande Bharat train pairs, covering routes such as Ajmer-Chandigarh via Delhi, Jodhpur-Sabarmati, Udaipur-Jaipur, and Udaipur-Agra Cantt. The expansion reflects Indian Railways’ ongoing effort to modernise long-distance travel with faster, more efficient, and energy-conscious train services.
While Vande Bharat trains are designed for speeds up to 180 kmph, track conditions currently limit operations to about 160 kmph. The latest variants, equipped with sleeper coaches, aim to enhance comfort and may gradually replace existing long-distance trains such as the Rajdhani Express on certain routes. Experts note that these developments align with India’s broader vision for sustainable, high-speed, and environmentally conscious passenger rail transport.The addition of the Jodhpur and Bikaner routes is expected to boost tourism, facilitate business travel, and provide an accessible travel option for residents, students, and professionals commuting to the national capital. Analysts suggest that faster, reliable train services can help stimulate local economies, strengthen regional integration, and reduce dependence on carbon-intensive road transport.
