The operationalisation of high-speed rail corridors is progressively transforming intercity travel across India, offering a compelling alternative to traditional modes of transport.
A recent firsthand account of a journey on the Vande Bharat Express connecting the major southern metropolises of Bangalore and Chennai underscores the efficiency and enhanced passenger experience that these modern train services provide. The 8-coach Vande Bharat, departing from KR Puram in Bangalore, completed the approximately 350-kilometre journey to Chennai Central in a mere four hours, a travel time significantly more competitive than road travel, particularly given current infrastructure constraints. The passenger, a frequent traveller between the two cities who predominantly uses road transport, shared their positive experience, noting the rapid acceleration of the Vande Bharat, drawing a comparison to the swift pick-up speed of an intercity Volvo bus. The train’s ability to reach Banagpet in under 30 minutes and Jolarpet in slightly over an hour from KR Puram highlights the potential of these high-speed corridors to drastically reduce travel times. For a significant portion of the journey from KR Puram, the train consistently maintained speeds of around 130 kilometres per hour, showcasing the advanced engineering and track infrastructure supporting these higher velocities. While the journey did encounter minor delays due to line clearances, track work, and a couple of unscheduled stops, the overall travel time remained remarkably efficient.
A key aspect of the positive feedback revolved around the superior ride comfort offered by the Vande Bharat Express, especially when operating at its higher speeds of 130 kmph. Passengers noted a discernible improvement in ride quality compared to the Shatabdi Express, a previously premium intercity rail service. The stability and smooth ride, even at high speeds, contribute significantly to a more relaxed and productive travel experience. The sensation of speed was particularly noticeable when approaching Chennai Central in the suburban areas, with the proximity of buildings providing a tangible sense of the velocity. This positive review gains further significance in the context of ongoing infrastructure development in the region. The passenger observed the construction of a new expressway, including a bridge nearing Sholingur that could potentially be part of the much-anticipated Bangalore-Chennai expressway. While the completion of such expressways promises to improve road travel times in the future, the current experience on the Vande Bharat Express positions high-speed rail as a highly convenient and time-saving option for intercity travel in the interim.
The increasing adoption of high-speed rail like the Vande Bharat Express aligns strongly with the goals of promoting sustainable and efficient transportation. By offering a faster and more comfortable alternative to driving, these train services can contribute to a reduction in the number of private vehicles on the road, thereby mitigating traffic congestion and lowering carbon emissions. This shift towards rail travel supports the creation of more sustainable and environmentally responsible urban corridors. Furthermore, efficient intercity connectivity fosters economic activity and strengthens social ties between major urban centres, contributing to a more integrated and equitable regional development. The positive feedback from passengers highlights the tangible benefits of investing in modern railway infrastructure and its potential to reshape the travel landscape in India. As more high-speed corridors become operational, the vision of seamless and sustainable intercity commutes is steadily becoming a reality.
Also read: https://urbanacres.in/chennai-welcomes-vande-bharat-style-local/
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