Today marks a significant leap in India’s railway modernization journey as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the nation’s first Vande Bharat Metro service from Bhuj to Ahmedabad, alongside the launch of several new Vande Bharat Express trains. This momentous event is not only a testament to India’s growing infrastructure but also a landmark achievement in the journey towards modern and efficient rail transport.
India’s First Vande Bharat Metro: Bhuj to Ahmedabad
The highly anticipated Vande Bharat Metro service was flagged off by PM Modi during his first visit to Gujarat since taking office for the third consecutive term. The new Ahmedabad-Bhuj Vande Bharat Metro will cover a distance of 360 kilometers, connecting nine stations in just 5 hours and 45 minutes. The service promises a seamless travel experience with a top speed of 110 km/h.
Ahmedabad-Bhuj Vande Bharat Metro Timings:
- Train No. 94801: Departs from Ahmedabad at 5:30 PM every day except Saturday, reaching Bhuj at 11:10 PM.
- Train No. 94802: Departs from Bhuj at 5:05 AM every day except Sunday, reaching Ahmedabad at 10:50 AM.
This Vande Bharat Metro train not only enhances connectivity between Bhuj and Ahmedabad but also marks a significant shift in Indian Railways’ modernization efforts.
New Vande Bharat Express Trains on Key Routes
In addition to the Vande Bharat Metro, PM Modi flagged off several new Vande Bharat trains on crucial routes, enhancing travel options and reducing journey times for passengers across different regions. The newly launched routes include:
- Kolhapur to Pune
- Pune to Hubballi
- Nagpur to Secunderabad
- Agra Cantt to Banaras
- Durg to Visakhapatnam
These Vande Bharat Express trains are part of India’s ongoing efforts to revolutionize its railways with faster, more comfortable trains, offering passengers an improved travel experience.
Additional Projects Launched by PM Modi
Beyond the railway sector, PM Modi inaugurated a series of infrastructure and development projects aimed at boosting Gujarat’s energy and housing sectors. Some key highlights include:
- 30 MW solar system and 35 MW BESS at Kutch Lignite Thermal Power Station.
- The launch of the Single Window IT System (SWITS) by the International Financial Services Centres Authority to streamline financial services.
- Sanctioning of 30,000 homes under the PMAY-Gramin scheme, with the release of the first installment for these houses.
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation for several key infrastructure projects in Ahmedabad, including the Samakhiali-Gandhidham railway line quadrupling, construction of flyovers, and development of iconic roads in the city.
Must Read: Vande Bharat Bangalore to Madurai: A New Era of Travel
PM Modi’s Virtual Flag-Off of Six Vande Bharat Trains
A day before today’s ceremony, PM Modi virtually flagged off six other Vande Bharat Express trains on the following routes:
Tatanagar to Patna
Bhagalpur to Dumka to Howrah
Brahmapur to Tatanagar
Gaya to Howrah
Deoghar to Varanasi
Rourkela to Howrah
This further strengthens India’s rail connectivity and reaffirms the government’s commitment to developing high-speed rail services.
Conclusion: A New Era of Travel with Vande Bharat
With the launch of the Vande Bharat Metro and new Vande Bharat Express trains, India’s railway network is entering a new era of high-speed, comfortable, and efficient travel. These developments are in line with PM Modi’s vision of a modernized, future-ready railway system. The introduction of sustainable energy projects and the boost to housing under the PMAY-Gramin scheme only adds to the day’s importance, reflecting a multifaceted approach to development across the country.
The future of Indian Railways looks promising, with more such projects lined up, making travel easier, faster, and more enjoyable for millions of passengers.
