PM Modi flags off four new Vande Bharat trains from Varanasi

Varanasi: Prime minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express trains from his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, further expanding India’s premium semi-high-speed train network.

The new trains will operate on the Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi and Ernakulam–Bengaluru routes, enhancing intercity travel and regional connectivity across key parts of the country.

Addressing a public gathering after the launch, PM Modi said the Vande Bharat series has transformed rail travel in India by offering greater speed, comfort, and efficiency. “Trains like Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat and Amrit Bharat are setting the foundation for a new era of Indian Railways,” he said, adding that world-class infrastructure is a key driver of economic growth and India is moving rapidly on that path.

Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat

The new Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat will connect Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot and Khajuraho, some of India’s most prominent religious and cultural centres. The train will save nearly two hours and forty minutes compared to existing services. Officials said the route will significantly boost religious and cultural tourism, offering pilgrims and travelers a modern and comfortable link to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho.

Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat

The Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat will cover the journey in seven hours and forty-five minutes, reducing travel time by about an hour. The train will benefit passengers from Lucknow, Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Bijnor and Saharanpur, while improving access to Haridwar via Roorkee. The route is expected to strengthen connectivity across central and western Uttar Pradesh, supporting regional growth and mobility.

Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat

The Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat Express will be the fastest train on this route, completing the journey in six hours and forty minutes. It will enhance connectivity between the national capital and major cities in Punjab, including Firozpur, Bathinda and Patiala. The service is expected to boost trade, tourism and employment opportunities, contributing to the socio-economic development of border regions and strengthening integration with national markets.

Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat

The Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat will cut travel time by more than two hours, completing the trip in eight hours and forty minutes. Connecting key IT and commercial hubs across Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the train will provide professionals, students and tourists with a faster and more comfortable travel option. It is expected to stimulate economic activity and tourism in southern India, fostering greater regional collaboration.

(with inputs from agencies)