Odisha’s transportation landscape has witnessed a significant transformation with the introduction of the Vande Bharat Express trains, enhancing connectivity between key cities and neighbouring regions.
Operated and maintained by the Western Railway zone, these semi-high-speed trains offer faster and more comfortable travel options for passengers. The Puri–Rourkela Vande Bharat Express, covering a distance of 504 kilometres, is one of the prominent additions to the state’s rail network. Additionally, the Bhubaneswar–Visakhapatnam route connects Odisha’s capital to the Andhra Pradesh coast, further strengthening inter-state connectivity. Other significant routes include the Brahmapur–Tatanagar service, the Rourkela–Howrah train, the Raipur–Visakhapatnam, and the Berhampur–Tatanagar routes.
These developments are part of a broader national initiative to expand the Vande Bharat network across India. In September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flagged off six new Vande Bharat trains, including the Brahmapur–Tatanagar, Rourkela–Howrah, and Raipur–Visakhapatnam services. The Ministry of Railways has also announced plans to introduce these semi-high-speed trains on several new routes in the coming days. One such proposed route is between Vijayawada and Bengaluru, which is expected to be launched soon. The Vijayawada–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express will cover a distance of 713 km in around 9 hours, likely passing through Tirupati. The latest Vande Bharat 2.0 version boasts advanced features such as faster acceleration, the Kavach safety system, an anti-virus system, and WiFi. These enhancements aim to provide a safer and more comfortable travel experience for passengers. With the Vande Bharat Express train services, Indian Railways is on a path to revolutionise travel in India. These trains not only reflect the success of the ‘Make in India’ initiative but also set new global standards for speed, safety, and service.
The expansion of the Vande Bharat Express network in Odisha is expected to significantly impact the state’s economy and society. The new rail lines will reduce travel times between major cities, improve access to education, healthcare, and markets, and stimulate trade and regional development. The enhanced connectivity will also support freight movement across Odisha and beyond, contributing to the state’s economic growth. As the Vande Bharat Express network continues to expand, it is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation in India, fostering economic development, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens across the country.
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