Varanasi, November 8, 2025: In a major boost to India’s expanding semi-high-speed rail network, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flagged off four new Vande Bharat Express trains from his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi.
The newly inaugurated routes include Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru, further strengthening inter-state connectivity and accelerating regional development across India.
Speaking at a public rally after the launch, PM Modi said the Vande Bharat trains represent “a new era of comfort, efficiency, and national pride” in Indian Railways.
“Vande Bharat is a train made by Indians, for Indians, and of Indians — one that fills every Indian with pride,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the total number of operational Vande Bharat trains has now crossed 160 across the country.
‘Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat, and Amrit Bharat are Shaping a New Railway Era’
Highlighting the government’s focus on infrastructure-driven growth, PM Modi said,
“Infrastructure is not just about big bridges and highways. Wherever such systems are built, they spark overall development in that region.”
The event was attended by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who lauded the initiative for transforming rail travel in India.
PM Modi added that modern trains like Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat, and Amrit Bharat are laying the foundation for the next generation of Indian Railways, offering speed, safety, and passenger convenience on par with global standards.
Route-Wise Highlights
1. Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express
The new service will link some of India’s most iconic religious and cultural destinations, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Khajuraho.
It will save nearly 2 hours and 40 minutes compared to existing services. The train is expected to boost pilgrimage and cultural tourism along with improved travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho.
2. Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat Express
Covering the route in 7 hours and 45 minutes, this service reduces travel time by one hour.
The train will benefit passengers from Lucknow, Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Bijnor, and Saharanpur, and improve access to Haridwar via Roorkee.
Officials said the route will enhance regional development and intercity connectivity across central and western Uttar Pradesh.
3. Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat Express
This new train will become the fastest service between Delhi and Firozpur, completing the journey in 6 hours and 40 minutes.
It strengthens links with key Punjab cities such as Bathinda and Patiala, promoting trade, tourism, and job creation in border regions.
4. Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express
The premium train will cover the 583-km route in 8 hours and 40 minutes, cutting travel time by over two hours.
It connects major IT and commercial hubs across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, providing a faster and more comfortable travel option for professionals, students, and tourists.
Officials said the route will boost economic activity and tourism across southern India.
India’s Expanding Vande Bharat Network
With these four additions, India’s Vande Bharat Express network now includes over 160 trains, linking major cities across the country with modern, semi-high-speed rail service.
The initiative reflects the government’s vision of a “New India on Rails”, combining indigenous technology, passenger comfort, and national pride.
