How many vande bharat trains are there in india: The Vande Bharat Express – you’ve probably heard about it or even traveled on one of its sleek, super-speedy coaches. Often dubbed India’s ‘Train 18’ (since the first prototype was ready in 2018), this ultra-modern train has come to represent everything that’s fast, convenient, and luxurious in Indian rail travel. But how many of these trains are running across India as of 2024, and what’s making them so popular? Let’s dive into the story, the stats, and what makes these trains truly special.
The Vande Bharat Journey: From Prototype to National Superstar
The first Vande Bharat Express hit the tracks on February 15, 2019, with an inaugural run from New Delhi to Varanasi. It wasn’t just another train – this one was different. With its sleek design, plush seating, and cutting-edge features, Vande Bharat quickly became a household name. And why wouldn’t it? For the first time, passengers could cover routes at speeds of up to 160 km/h (99 mph), cutting down travel times between major cities and bringing Shatabdi Express-level comfort and convenience to even more people.
In just five years, Vande Bharat has grown from a single route to a whopping 66 operational trains as of October 2024. These trains crisscross the country, connecting cities, bridging states, and transforming rail travel as we know it. But there’s more to Vande Bharat than just numbers – let’s break down what makes these trains special.
What Sets Vande Bharat Apart?
- No Locomotive Needed: Unlike traditional trains that rely on a locomotive to pull them, Vande Bharat uses an EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) system, which means every car has its own motor. This makes for quicker acceleration, faster speeds, and smoother rides.
- High-Speed, High-Tech: Vande Bharat trains can reach speeds of up to 183 km/h (114 mph) in testing, though they’re usually capped at 160 km/h in service to match track limitations. Even at these speeds, Vande Bharat offers stability and smoothness like no other train in India.
- Comfort Onboard: Whether you’re in the standard Chair Car (CC) or the upgraded Executive Class (EC), Vande Bharat spares no comfort. Think spacious, reclining seats, foldable trays, individual reading lights, USB ports, and even rotating seats in EC for a better view!
- Safety First: Safety is a big deal, and Vande Bharat trains are equipped with CCTV cameras, fire alarms, automatic doors, and GPS-enabled onboard announcements. It’s a journey where passengers can feel both comfortable and secure.
- Meals Included: Traveling for a few hours? Vande Bharat serves meals included with your ticket, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, often inspired by regional cuisines depending on the route.
The Rise of Vande Bharat: Expansion Across India’s Rail Network
Starting with just one route, Vande Bharat has quickly expanded to serve 66 routes by 2024. Here are some of the major Vande Bharat routes that have made headlines:
- Mumbai–Gandhinagar: Connecting the economic powerhouse of Mumbai with Gujarat’s capital, this route offers much-needed, fast-paced connectivity for business travelers and tourists alike.
- Howrah–New Jalpaiguri: If you’re headed to Darjeeling or the Northeast, this train is a game-changer, making the journey quick and efficient.
- Chennai–Mysuru: Linking Tamil Nadu with Karnataka, this route has transformed travel in South India, especially for regular commuters and holiday travelers.
- Mumbai–Shirdi: Pilgrims heading to the Sai Baba temple in Shirdi now have a faster and more comfortable way to reach their destination.
How Many Vande Bharat Trains Are Operational Right Now?
So, as of October 2024, India has 66 Vande Bharat trains in service. But it’s not just about the numbers; these trains are available in different configurations to meet varying travel needs:
- Eighteen 16-Car Trains: These are the larger trains, running on high-demand routes to carry more passengers.
- Three 20-Car Trains: On routes with heavy commuter traffic, like busy metro corridors, these extended 20-car trains offer more seating and reduce crowding.
- Forty-Five 8-Car Trains: Used on medium-traffic routes, these are perfect for intercity connections, offering the right mix of capacity and efficiency.
What’s Next for Vande Bharat?
Indian Railways has big dreams for the Vande Bharat trains. Plans are underway to introduce more than 4,500 Vande Bharat trains by 2047, with the aim of covering every corner of India. What’s more, the Railway Ministry is also working on sleeper variants for overnight routes, making Vande Bharat an even more versatile option for travelers.
Imagine boarding a Vande Bharat for a cozy overnight journey, waking up refreshed at your destination the next morning – all in the lap of luxury, of course. It’s a vision that combines India’s rail history with a futuristic twist, setting new standards in how we move across the country.
Must Read: PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Vande Bharat Metro: New Vande Bharat Trains on Multiple Routes
Final Thoughts: Why Vande Bharat is More Than Just a Train
Vande Bharat isn’t just a train; it’s a story of how India’s railways are stepping into the future. These trains offer a perfect blend of speed, comfort, and safety – making long-distance travel within India easier, faster, and more enjoyable.
And while 66 Vande Bharat trains may seem like a lot, it’s only the beginning. The government’s ambitious goals mean we’re going to see more Vande Bharat trains rolling out across more routes, connecting more people and places, and taking Indian Railways to new heights.
So, next time you’re planning a trip, why not hop on a Vande Bharat and experience the journey firsthand? It’s not just about getting from point A to B – it’s about enjoying the ride.
