PM Modi launches 4 new Vande Bharat trains, says better connectivity boosts development
Varanasi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off four new Vande Bharat Express trains on Saturday, expanding India’s high-speed rail network. The new trains will operate on the Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru routes.
Addressing a large gathering after the inauguration, PM Modi said infrastructure drives growth and connects people with opportunities. “The development of a city begins when it gets better connectivity. Infrastructure is not just about big bridges and highways—it shapes people’s lives,” he said.
He emphasized that pilgrimages strengthen the nation’s spiritual unity. “These trains not only link heritage cities but also accelerate development,” he said. Modi highlighted that Uttar Pradesh’s improved infrastructure has strengthened its economy. “Last year, 11 crore devotees visited Baba Vishwanath and 6 crore visited Ram Lalla. Their visits added thousands of crores to the state’s economy,” he added.
Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat
The Banaras–Khajuraho train now connects two major cultural centers directly. It will complete the journey in just 2 hours 40 minutes—much faster than existing trains. The route links Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Khajuraho, making travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site smoother. This link will promote cultural tourism and strengthen the region’s pilgrimage circuit.
Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat
The Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat will cut travel time to about 7 hours 45 minutes, saving nearly an hour. It will benefit passengers from Lucknow, Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Bijnor, and Saharanpur. The new link will also improve access to Haridwar via Roorkee. PM Modi said this route will make intercity travel across central and western Uttar Pradesh faster and more comfortable.
Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat
On the Firozpur–Delhi route, the new Vande Bharat will become the fastest train between Punjab and the national capital. It will complete the journey in 6 hours 40 minutes. The train will connect Delhi with key cities like Firozpur, Bathinda, and Patiala. Modi said the route will enhance trade and tourism in Punjab’s border belt and integrate it more closely with India’s main markets.
Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat
In the south, the Ernakulam–Bengaluru train will finish its run in 8 hours 40 minutes, reducing travel time by more than two hours. The route links major IT and business hubs across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. It will offer professionals, students, and tourists a faster and more efficient option. Modi said the service will strengthen economic and tourism ties among southern states.
The Prime Minister said the Vande Bharat trains reflect India’s self-reliant progress. “Vande Bharat is not just a train—it is the speed of a new India,” he said. He assured that the government will soon add more such trains to boost regional connectivity and create new growth corridors.
