PM Modi Flags Off Four New Vande Bharat Express Trains, Bolstering Indian Railways Network

New Vande Bharat Express Trains Launched

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, November 8, 2025, inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express trains, marking a significant expansion of India's modern railway infrastructure. The flagging-off ceremony took place at Banaras railway station in Varanasi, with one train being physically flagged off and the other three virtually. These additions bring the total number of Vande Bharat services across the country to over 160.

The new routes are designed to enhance regional mobility, reduce travel times, and stimulate economic and tourism activities across various states. During the event, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that these trains represent the 'new face of Indian Railways' and are instrumental in the nation's developmental journey.

Key Routes and Enhanced Connectivity

The four newly launched Vande Bharat Express trains will operate on the following crucial routes:

• Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express: This route will connect significant religious and cultural destinations, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho. It is expected to reduce travel time by approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes compared to existing special trains.
• Lucknow Junction–Saharanpur Vande Bharat Express: Serving central and western Uttar Pradesh, this train will improve intercity travel and save nearly 1 hour in transit.
• Firozpur Cantt–Delhi Vande Bharat Express: Becoming the fastest train on this route, it will complete the journey in just 6 hours and 40 minutes. This service aims to strengthen connectivity between the national capital and key cities in Punjab, such as Firozpur, Bathinda, and Patiala, fostering trade, tourism, and employment in border regions.
• Bengaluru–Ernakulam Vande Bharat Express: Linking major IT and commercial hubs in the South, this train will cut travel time by over 2 hours, completing the run in 8 hours and 40 minutes. It is anticipated to boost economic and tourism ties between Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

Modern Features and Developmental Impact

The Vande Bharat Express trains, developed by the Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF), are semi-high-speed, all air-conditioned train sets capable of reaching a maximum speed of 180 kmph, with an operational speed of 160 kmph on permissible stretches. They feature aircraft-style amenities such as personalized reading lights, bio-vacuum toilets, and ambient lighting, offering a premium and comfortable travel experience.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the pivotal role of infrastructure in national development, stating that 'Infrastructure has played an important role in the development of most nations.' He described the launch as a 'festival of development,' linking it to the spirit of Dev Deepawali. The Prime Minister also noted that trains like Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat, and Amrit Bharat are laying the foundation for the next generation of Indian Railways, calling Vande Bharat a train 'made by Indians, for Indians, and of Indians.'

Vision for a Developed India

The Prime Minister underscored that these new services are part of India's mission to enhance its resources for a developed nation. He pointed out the significant increase in pilgrimage to sites like Varanasi and Ayodhya, attributing it to improved connectivity and infrastructure, which in turn contributes substantially to the state's economy. The new Vande Bharat trains are expected to further accelerate this progress by connecting heritage cities and facilitating easier access for pilgrims and tourists.