Latest Vande Bharat News | Top Vande Bharat News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Vande Bharat News Today | English Vande Bharat News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Vande Bharat Express reaches Jammu

January 24, 2025, 9:28 pm

The Vande Bharat Express, specially designed to withstand the unforgiving winter conditions of Jammu and Kashmir, made its much-anticipated entry at Jammu railway station today, stirring a wave of excitement among locals and passengers. A distinctive announcement echoed across the station: “Yatrigan kripya dhyan dein, Vande Bharat train sankhya 244027 Kashmir jane ke liye platform number ek par khadi hai.”

The electrified crowd responded with cheers of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” rushing to platform number one to witness the sleek, state-of-the-art train that will soon connect Katra to Kashmir. The scene was one of jubilation, as people gathered to celebrate what many described as a landmark moment in Indian Railways’ history. “We are thrilled to see this train in Jammu. It’s been our dream to travel on it,” said Adik Kadam, a Pune resident who had come with his family after witnessing snowfall in Kashmir. “This train makes Kashmir feel so much closer to us,” he added, reflecting the broader sentiment of enhanced national connectivity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off the train from Katra soon, following the green light from the commissioner of Railway Safety for the Katra-Baramulla section. However, the date for the flagging-off ceremony is yet to be announced. The launch of the Vande Bharat Express coincides with the completion of the 272-kilometer Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a transformative achievement for Indian Railways. The train, unveiled by the Railway Board on June 8, has been customized with climate-adaptive technologies to tackle the harsh winters of the region.

Unlike the 136 other Vande Bharat trains running across India, this version boasts cutting-edge features such as heated water tanks, vacuum systems for warm air circulation, and sub-zero air-brake mechanisms. The train also has embedded heating elements in its windshield to ensure clear visibility for drivers during snowfall. Passengers can look forward to modern amenities, including fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, and mobile charging sockets, offering a comfortable and luxurious travel experience. This groundbreaking connectivity project is more than just an engineering feat; it is a symbol of India’s commitment to bridging geographical divides. The USBRL project showcases two world-class marvels: the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, and the iconic Chenab River arch bridge.

The Anji Khad Bridge, with its single pylon rising 331 meters above the riverbed, spans an impressive 473.25 meters, making it one of the two highest railway bridges in the world. Meanwhile, the Chenab Bridge, standing at 359 meters above the riverbed, is the highest railway bridge globally, surpassing the height of the Eiffel Tower by 35 meters.

Over the past month, Indian Railways conducted six successful trial runs along this challenging route, solidifying the operational readiness of this historic initiative. The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express symbolizes a new era of connectivity and economic integration for Jammu and Kashmir, with the picturesque Kashmir valley now more accessible than ever.

Vande Bharat Set to Roll into Kashmir as Railway Connectivity Nears Completion

November 19, 2024, 9:21 pm

Union Minister of State for Railways, Ravneet Singh, has announced that the much-anticipated railway connectivity between Katra and Kashmir is on track for completion. Testing on the Katra-Kashmir railway link is expected to wrap up by December, paving the way for Kashmir to be connected to the rest of the country via rail in January.

During his visit to the Anji cable-stayed bridge today, Singh conducted a comprehensive review of the ongoing work on the ambitious project. The Anji bridge, a critical link in the railway network, stands as a testament to engineering marvels in the region.

This development marks a significant milestone in bringing the iconic Vande Bharat Express closer to Kashmir, a move poised to transform the region’s connectivity and economic prospects.

Insects Spotted in Sambhar on Vande Bharat Train, Congress MP Shares Shocking Video

November 18, 2024, 4:04 pm

A passenger traveling on the Vande Bharat train from Tirunelveli to Chennai had an unpleasant experience when he discovered insects crawling in the sambhar served during his journey. The passenger shared a video on social media showing black bugs floating in the curry, which quickly went viral and sparked outrage over the food quality on India’s premier express train.

The video was also shared by Congress MP Manickam Tagore, who questioned the hygiene standards on the Vande Bharat trains. He wrote, “Dear Ashwini Vaishnaw ji, live insects were found in the food served on the Tirunelveli-Chennai Vande Bharat Express. Passengers have raised concerns over hygiene and IRCTC’s accountability. What steps are being taken to address this and ensure food safety on premium trains?”

Watch:

Dear @AshwiniVaishnaw ji ,live insects ? were found in the food served on the Tirunelveli-Chennai #VandeBharatExpress

Passengers have raised concerns over hygiene and IRCTC’s accountability.
What steps are being taken to address this and ensure food safety on premium trains? pic.twitter.com/auR2bqtmip

— Manickam Tagore .B??மாணிக்கம் தாகூர்.ப (@manickamtagore) November 16, 2024

This incident is not the first food safety issue faced by Vande Bharat trains. Earlier, another passenger had reported finding a cockroach in their meal, leading to widespread disgust among social media users. One user commented, “Why are catering services third class on many express trains and platforms? Food prepared and served is completely unhygienic. People have no choice but to adjust.” Another user added, “Anyone who travels by railways knows not to eat the food sold by Railways. This is disgusting.”

In response to the outrage, the Southern Railway issued a clarification, stating that an immediate investigation was conducted. Upon inspecting the food sample, they determined that the insect had been stuck to the lid of the aluminum container and not inside the sambhar itself. The railway authorities imposed a Rs. 50,000 fine on the catering service provider, Ms. Brindavan Food Products, for negligence. “Food samples were collected and sent for testing to ascertain the cause of the contamination. For this negligence, a penalty of Rs. 50,000 has been imposed on the contractor, and further action is being pursued,” the statement read.

Vande Bharat: Video Shows Jaw Droppping Luxury Interiors ‘Paan Thook Enthusiasts Ready’

October 8, 2024, 10:48 am

On October 6, 2024, social media was abuzz with excitement after a user by the handle @trainwalebhaiya shared a video revealing the sleek interiors of the much-anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper train. The video, which showcased the modern design of the sleeper coach, quickly went viral, racking up over 45.5K views. Enthusiasts praised the stylish, futuristic look, hailing it as a sign of the ongoing transformation within Indian Railways.

Netizens React to the Vande Bharat Sleeper’s Facelift

The video revealed the train’s contemporary seating, upgraded washrooms, and modern amenities, igniting a wave of excitement online. One user commented, “If this is what the Vande Bharat Sleeper is offering, it’s going to be a serious facelift for Indian Railways.” Another user humorously remarked, “People won’t accept this. Protesters will rise, and the government might lose another election!” Another cheeky comment referred to the notorious habit of some travelers: “Gutka gang gearing up to turn things red.”

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Interiors of “Vande Bharat Sleeper Version” looks too good ♥️ Wait for the washrooms,
If this is what Vande Bharat Sleeper is offering, it is going to be some serious facelift for Indian Railways ?
Hope Indians will treat it well. https://t.co/xRhwa0bUTo pic.twitter.com/efGDAZxwxM

— Trains of India (@trainwalebhaiya) October 6, 2024

NGL, Vande Bharat Sleeper Version looks amazing from Front ? pic.twitter.com/xsDc7ZDhzU

— Trains of India (@trainwalebhaiya) October 6, 2024

Despite the humorous reactions, many praised the design, with one user stating, “This is too good. Hope Indians will treat it well.”

Indian Railways’ Modern Overhaul with Vande Bharat Sleeper

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Edition has been touted as luxurious and cutting-edge, featuring clean lines, comfortable seating, and state-of-the-art washrooms. This sleeper version is expected to revolutionize long-distance travel in India, offering a significant upgrade from current services. With the positive response from the public, many hope passengers will maintain the facilities and keep them in top condition.

High-Speed Capabilities of Vande Bharat Sleeper

Designed for a top speed of 160 kmph, with test runs reaching 180 kmph, the Vande Bharat sleeper train is self-propelled, allowing for faster acceleration and deceleration. This gives it the ability to maintain higher average speeds than traditional long-distance trains like the Rajdhani Express, promising quicker and more efficient travel across the country.

The viral post has left many eager for the train’s debut, while discussions about modernizing Indian Railways continue to gain momentum.

Watch: BJP MLA Falls on Tracks During Vande Bharat Train Flag-Off Ceremony

September 17, 2024, 11:00 am

BJP MLA Sarita Bhadoria narrowly escaped injury after slipping and falling onto the railway tracks during the flagging-off ceremony for the Agra Cantt-Banaras Vande Bharat Express at Etawah Junction on Monday.

The incident occurred amid a chaotic scene at the platform. A security guard lost his footing, inadvertently causing Bhadoria to tumble onto the tracks. Fortunately, quick actions by security personnel and party workers helped her back onto the platform, allowing the ceremony to continue as planned.

आगरा में भाजपा विधायक सरिता भदौरिया #VandeBharatExpress ट्रेन के आगे गिर गई।

दरअसल, आज आगरा कैंट से वाराणसी के लिए इस नई ट्रेन का शुभारंभ हुआ था।

क्या भाजपा इसके लिए भी नेहरू जी कों ज़िम्मेदार ठहरायेगी? pic.twitter.com/2bqs6Btdij

— Ankur Kumar (@ankurkumar083) September 16, 2024

In a separate event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated several Vande Bharat trains, including India’s first Vande Metro from Bhuj to Ahmedabad. Other new routes included Nagpur to Secunderabad, Kolhapur to Pune, Agra Cantt to Banaras, Durg to Visakhapatnam, Pune to Hubballi, and the first 20-coach Vande Bharat train running from Varanasi to Delhi.

The Agra-Varanasi Vande Bharat Express is scheduled to depart Agra at 5:05 p.m., stop at Tundla at 6:05 p.m., Kanpur at 7:50 p.m., and arrive in Varanasi at 11:55 p.m. For the return trip, the train will leave Varanasi at 12:30 a.m. and reach Agra by 8:00 a.m. This train will operate six days a week, excluding Fridays, though exact schedule and fare details have yet to be announced.

PM Modi Inaugurates Semicon India Summit, Unveils Vision for India’s Semiconductor Industry

September 11, 2024, 2:38 pm

India’s Semiconductor Dream

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Semicon India summit at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida, emphasizing India’s growing role in the global semiconductor industry. In his address, PM Modi highlighted the opportunities for investment and development in the sector, stating, “Many projects are currently in the pipeline, and India today assures the world that when the chips are down, you can bet on India.”

Vision for Made-in-India Chips

PM Modi shared his vision of transforming India into a key player in the semiconductor market. “My dream is that every device in the world should have a made in India chip,” he said, underscoring the country’s ambition to become a global hub for chip manufacturing. He noted that India’s policies have attracted significant investments, “In a very short time, investments worth more than Rs 1.5 trillion have been made in this sector.”

Strengthening Semiconductor Infrastructure

The Prime Minister further discussed the importance of education, talent development, and infrastructure in advancing India’s semiconductor industry. He revealed that India is preparing a semiconductor workforce of 85,000 technicians, engineers, and R&D specialists to meet global demands. “In the world of designing, India contributes 20 per cent of the talent,” he added.

India is also heavily investing in semiconductor infrastructure, with a research fund of Rs 1 trillion. This initiative aims to expand innovation in semiconductor technology and science sectors, following the first meeting of the National Research Foundation on semiconductor research.

Government Support and Global Appeal

PM Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering growth in this sector, citing the ease of doing business and stable policies. “You invest and create value, and the government provides you with stable policies and ease of doing business,” he remarked.

Additionally, he highlighted India’s “three-dimensional power” of a reform-oriented government, a growing manufacturing base, and a large aspirational market. The Prime Minister also announced the government’s support, offering 50% assistance in setting up semiconductor manufacturing facilities.

India’s push for semiconductor self-reliance is poised to play a crucial role in the global technology landscape, with PM Modi’s vision driving the country toward becoming a leader in this vital industry.

Man Breaks Vande Bharat Train Window With Hammer, Video Goes Viral

September 11, 2024, 12:12 pm

A video of a man repeatedly hitting the window pane of a stationary Vande Bharat train has gone viral on social media, igniting a heated debate. Some users on X argued that the man should face punishment, while others claimed he was attempting to repair the window. This incident has garnered attention amidst a series of train sabotage cases reported across India.

The video, widely shared on social media, includes an X post where an individual captioned the video in Tamil. Upon translation, it reads, “Vande Bharat train smashing by a mystery man. Anyone know where this happened and what happened?” In the footage, the man is seen standing in front of the train’s window, hitting the glass with a hammer until cracks appear.

Watch:

வந்தே பாரத் ரயிலை சுத்தியல் மூலம் உடைக்கும் மர்ம நபர்?????? இது எங்கு நடந்தது என்ன சம்பவம் என்று யாருக்காவது தெரியுமா? pic.twitter.com/uGYdPCsXhc

— Dr Mouth Matters (@GanKanchi) September 10, 2024

This viral video has sparked controversy and prompted various reactions, having already collected over 1.5 lakh views and 1,200 likes. Users have weighed in with different perspectives in the comments.

What are X users saying about this?

One user clarified, “Dear sir, Please confirm the news before posting. It is one of the processes of changing the cracked window glass. He is trying to break the cracked glass to remove it.” Another user echoed the sentiment, adding, “Train is in the Coach Care Centre, not at the platform. He is smashing the glass because they need to replace it. He’s just the worker for the contractor assigned to replace the glass window.”

However, not everyone is convinced that the man was breaking the window for repair purposes. One commenter argued, “He must be booked and jailed for 10-15 years for destroying the public property.” Another added, “He should be arrested ASAP.”

Recent train sabotage incidents:

In a recent event, an LPG cylinder was placed between Shivrajpur and Bilhaur in Kanpur, causing the Bhiwani-Prayagraj Kalindi Express, carrying thousands of passengers, to stop after hitting it. Fortunately, a major tragedy was avoided due to a loco pilot’s timely alert. Authorities also found “a bottle of petrol, matchboxes, and a suspicious bag containing a gunpowder-like substance” in the area, indicating a potential sabotage attempt.

Just hours earlier, two cement blocks were discovered on the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor tracks, believed to have been placed to derail a goods train loaded with cargo.

Watch: A Sneak Peek At The Vande Bharat Sleeper Coach Design

September 1, 2024, 10:36 pm

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today oversaw the production of the Vande Bharat sleeper coach at Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) in Bengaluru. He announced that the train is expected to be operational for passengers within the next three months.

Vaishnaw stated that before it hits the tracks for comprehensive testing, the Vande Bharat sleeper coach will undergo a series of trials for ten days. “After Vande Bharat chair cars, we were working on Vande Bharat sleeper cars. Its manufacturing has now been completed. This train will go out for the trial and testing from the BEML facility today,” said Vaishnaw.

Karnataka: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav inspects Vande Bharat train Sleeper coach at BEML in Bengaluru pic.twitter.com/5xtTJ2SM4F

— IANS (@ians_india) September 1, 2024

Key Features of Vande Bharat Sleeper Coach

The train, with a maximum speed of 160 km/h, is designed for overnight travel, covering distances between 800 km and 1,200 km. The sleeper train will feature enhanced oxygen levels and virus protection, a measure learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaishnaw further noted, “It will be a train meant for the middle class and the fares will be on par with Rajdhani Express.”

The Vande Bharat sleeper coach will be equipped with GFRP panels, modular pantries, berths and toilets specially designed for differently-abled passengers, and automatic external doors. Additional features include hot water showers in 1st AC, sensor-operated fire barrier doors, a sensor-based interior, odor-free toilets, reading lights with USB charging, and a spacious luggage area.

Following successful testing of the prototypes, full-scale production will begin in about 18 months. “We will start the series of production after one-and-a-half years. Then it will be like practically every month two to three trains will start rolling out,” Vaishnaw told PTI.

PM Modi Flags Off 3 Vande Bharat Trains, Calls It a Milestone in Nation’s Progress Towards ‘Viksit Bharat’

August 31, 2024, 2:52 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three new Vande Bharat Express trains via video conference on Saturday, marking a significant step in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation with advanced infrastructure. The newly launched trains will operate on the Meerut-Lucknow, Madurai-Bengaluru, and Chennai-Nagercoil routes.

During the inauguration, PM Modi emphasized that the expansion of Vande Bharat trains symbolizes India’s progress towards “Viksit Bharat” with modernity and speed. He highlighted the importance of connecting key regions, including religious sites, through these high-speed trains, stating that the Madurai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat will be particularly beneficial for pilgrims, while the Chennai-Nagercoil route will serve students, farmers, and IT professionals.

The Prime Minister underscored the crucial role of Southern India’s development in achieving the national goal of a developed India. He pointed out that the government has prioritized the development of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and other southern states, with substantial budget allocations for railway infrastructure. For instance, Tamil Nadu received over Rs 6,000 crores in the current railway budget, which is seven times more than the 2014 allocation, while Karnataka received over Rs 7,000 crores, a ninefold increase from 2014.

PM Modi noted that the new Vande Bharat trains would save significant travel time on their respective routes, enhancing connectivity and convenience for passengers in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. These trains represent a step forward in providing world-class travel facilities to the people of these regions, contributing to increased tourism, business growth, and employment opportunities.

Live Cockroach Found In Vande Bharat Meal, Passenger Outraged

August 20, 2024, 7:11 pm

In another incident raising food safety concerns, a live cockroach was discovered in the daal served on the Vande Bharat Express train. The passenger, upon finding the insect in his meal, immediately lodged a complaint with the railway authorities, demanding swift action. He also posted a video on social media expressing his frustration, along with a photo of the contaminated meal.

In the video, the passenger is seen explaining to a railway official and a policeman that his relative found a dead cockroach in the meal. He questioned the authorities about the risks associated with consuming contaminated food and raised concerns about food safety. Referring to his 80-year-old grandfather, he asked whether anyone would eat such a meal. The passenger also complained about being served sour curd.

Cockroach found in the daal served in Vande Bharat train.#VandeBharatKaKalesh pic.twitter.com/FAtONre3qE

— Kapil (@kapsology) August 20, 2024

The post, shared on August 20, includes a photo of the complaint receipt filed with IRCTC, where the passenger noted finding a live cockroach in the daal, a dead cockroach in another food item, and sour curd. Since its posting, the video has garnered over 73,000 views, 1,100 likes, and numerous comments, with many expressing shock at the sight of the cockroach in the food.

Social Media Reactions:

One commenter remarked, “Why are passengers being forced to eat such food? They should have the option to order from outside vendors through an online delivery service that caters to trains.”

Another user on X noted, “Traveling by train is a nightmare. In 2nd or 3rd class, people without tickets will take your seat and block the washroom. Even on the so-called pride of India, the Vande Bharat train, you might find a cockroach in your meal. It’s better to avoid trains and opt for a bus or flight instead. Although pricier, it’s safer.”

User Ashutosh Vishwakarma stated, “This visible issue makes you wonder what else might be happening behind the scenes. I would never risk eating Indian railway food.”

Vande Bharat Express Becomes Boxing Ring After Passenger Receives Non-Veg Food

July 30, 2024, 11:35 am

A passenger on the Vande Bharat Express traveling from Howrah to Ranchi, who had ordered a vegetarian meal, was mistakenly served non-vegetarian food. After consuming part of the meal without noticing the label, the passenger realized he had eaten non-veg food and became furious, physically assaulting the waiter by slapping him twice.

“Vande Bharat, by mistake, served non-veg food to an old person. He didn’t see instructions and ate the food. Being vegetarian, he realized it tastes like non-veg, so he got furious and gave two tight slaps to the waiter,” reads the caption on the videos shared on X (formerly Twitter).

The videos depict the scene on the Vande Bharat train, showing passengers and catering staff in the aisle. Some passengers can be heard urging the man who slapped the waiter to apologize, saying “Maafi maang [say sorry],” repeatedly.

Watch The Viral Video:

Vande Bharat by mistake served Non-Veg food to a old person. He didn’t saw instructions and ate the food. Being vegetarian he realised it tastes like non-veg so he got furious & gave 2 tight slap to the waiter.

Vande Bharat – Howrah to Ranchi
Date – 26/ July/ 24
Live recording- pic.twitter.com/Mg0skE3KLo

— Kunal Verma (@itsmekunal07) July 27, 2024

The videos, posted on July 27, have been widely circulated on social media.

Social Media Reactions:

“It is assault. The person should be booked,” commented one user.

Another said, “The whole point of vegetarianism is non-violence, and if you are hitting people, you are actually in violation of the non-violence.”

A third user suggested, “Please book a case against the senior citizen. This attitude towards railway workers is unacceptable. He should be punished for sure. In parallel, please take action against the staff who served non-veg to the passenger.”

A fourth person added, “Railway should also have a passenger blacklisting system like aviation.”

A fifth user remarked, “The old man did wrong by slapping the waiter. The guy in the red T-shirt also did wrong by hitting the old man on the head and shoulder. Both should be punished.”

A sixth user noted, “The elderly man has no right to slap a waiter for supplying him with a meal that is not appropriate for him. The meal package is well-marked for vegetarians or non-vegetarians. If he ignores it, it is his mistake. A slap cannot punish his own mistake. He must apologize to the waiter.”

Aishwarya S Menon, Vande Bharat Loco Pilot Invited To PM Modi’s Oath Ceremony

June 8, 2024, 11:34 am

Aishwarya S Menon, a senior assistant loco pilot from the Chennai Division of Southern Railway, will be among the 8,000 special guests attending Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony on Sunday. Menon, currently piloting Vande Bharat trains, has completed over 2 lakh footplate hours driving various trains, including the Vande Bharat Express and Jan Shatabdi.

Menon’s commendable work on the Chennai-Vijayawada and Chennai-Coimbatore Vande Bharat Express services has earned her accolades for her agility, alertness, and in-depth knowledge of railway signalling. She will join other railway employees at Rashtrapati Bhavan to witness Modi’s third consecutive term as prime minister.

Asia’s First Woman Loco Pilot Also Attending

Surekha Yadav, Asia’s first female loco pilot, will also be present at the ceremony. Yadav, who drives the Vande Bharat train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to Solapur, is one of ten loco pilots invited. She made history in 1988 as India’s first female train driver and continues to set records by piloting the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express.

Diverse Guest List

The guest list for the swearing-in ceremony includes sanitation workers, transgender individuals, and labourers who worked on the Central Vista Project, sources told NDTV. Arrangements are being made for over 8,000 attendees at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

PM Modi’s Third Term

Narendra Modi will take the oath of office for his third term on Sunday evening, following an invitation from President Droupadi Murmu to form the government. The ceremony will commence at 7:15 pm at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with various South Asian leaders in attendance. Confirmed guests include Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, among others.

Historical Context

Modi becomes the second Indian to secure a third consecutive term as prime minister, following in the footsteps of Jawaharlal Nehru. Unlike Nehru, Modi’s current term will lead a coalition government, as the BJP did not secure a majority in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, winning 240 seats. The BJP-led NDA, with 293 seats, remains above the majority mark, thanks to alliances with key partners like Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party and Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal United.

PM Modi launches Vande Bharat trains from Ahmedabad for ten different routes

March 12, 2024, 10:03 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 10 high-speed Vande Bharat trains from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, marking a significant advancement in railway infrastructure on Tuesday. During his visit to DFC’s Operation Control Centre in Ahmedabad, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and unveiled railway and petrochemical projects valued at over Rs 1,06,000 crores.

The foundation stone was laid for various railway projects, including Railway Workshops, Loco Sheds, Pit lines/Coaching Depots, the Phaltan-Baramati New line, and Electric Traction System upgradation. Additionally, two sections of the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) were dedicated to the nation, spanning New Khurja to Sahnewal (401 Rkm) on the Eastern DFC and New Makarpura to New Gholvad (244 Rkm) on the Western DFC.

Prime Minister Modi also flagged off ten new Vande Bharat trains on different routes, enhancing connectivity. The extension of four existing Vande Bharat trains and the inauguration of two new passenger trains were also announced during the event. Freight trains on the Dedicated Freight Corridor were flagged off from various locations.

Moreover, the Prime Minister dedicated 50 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras at railway stations, providing affordable generic medicines. He inaugurated 51 Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals to facilitate seamless movement of goods. Additionally, 1045 Rkm of Automatic Signaling, Digital Controlling of Railway stations at 2646 locations, and 35 Rail Coach Restaurants were dedicated to enhance safety, efficiency, and passenger services.

Furthermore, more than 1500 One Station One Product Stalls were inaugurated to promote local products. The Prime Minister also dedicated Solar Powered Stations/buildings at 975 locations to contribute to India’s renewable energy goals and reduce the railways’ carbon footprint.

In the petrochemical sector, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the Petronet LNG Petrochemicals complex in Dahej, Gujarat, valued at over Rs. 20,600 crores. The project is expected to generate significant employment opportunities and socio-economic benefits in the region.

Additionally, the foundation stone for Ekta Malls in Gujarat and Maharashtra, celebrating Indian handlooms, handicrafts, traditional products, and One District One Product (ODOP) items, was laid, emphasizing unity in diversity and supporting traditional skills and sectors.

Kavach: Anti Train Collision System Tested Successful

January 25, 2024, 1:41 pm

North Central Railway Agra division conducted to examination the anti-train collision system ‘Kavach’ in a semi-high speed engine at 160 kmph speed. The trail has shown promising results claimed by the railways.

Kavach- developed by the RDSO (Research Designs and Standards Organisation) is well equipped to apply brakes automatically in case of any emergency when a train driver for any reason fails to act on time. The Indian Railways is in full form to implement this system across its network to enhance operational safety.

Prashashti Srivastava, PRO, Agra Rail Division said, “The driver of the locomotive was asked not to apply brakes after observing a red signal ahead. We wanted to examine if Kavach would apply brakes on its own and bring the train to a halt before the signal,” she said.

“The participating engineers and officials were happy to note that the locomotive stopped 30 meters before the red signal. It also met other safety parameters,” she added.

The Kavach is added with a semi-high speed engine, WAP-5, that si capable of pulling passengers at 160 kmph.

Believing the RDSO officials, it is only a 125 km stretch between Delhi and Agra where trains can run at their maximum speed.

This technology will not only help loco pilots to but also ensure enhanced safety and efficiency of the train.

Passengers stage black cloth protest claiming delay in trains due to Vande Bharat

November 20, 2023, 3:02 pm

Passengers in Kerala’s Ernakulam, who were enraged by the alleged excessive delays in train services, protested Indian Railways, alleging that the Vande Bharat Express trains were to blame for the delays. The passengers held posters with slogans written on them and covered their faces with black cloth as a sign of protest. Additionally, commuters congregated at the station and called for an alteration to the Vande Bharat train schedule.

Speaking on the matter, Communist Party of India (Marxist) MP A M Ariff said, “It is causing inconvenience to the passengers. I have already submitted so many requests and complaints to the railway authorities. They are saying that they are verifying the complaint.”
“Next time, I am going to meet the Minister and Railway Board Chairman on the matter. The main issue is that the time scheduled is changed for running the Vande Bharat Express train,” Ariff added.

Man books ticket for Vande Bharat but travels on different train

June 19, 2023, 2:59 pm

A man has alleged that his ambition of riding in the opulent Vande Bharat train was crushed with the arrival of a new train with subpar services. The man, named Siddharth Pandey, tweeted about his experience while mentioning the Indian Railways and Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

Additionally, Pandey posted images and videos from inside the train, which displayed a congested restroom and a different atmosphere than Vande Bharat. As the tweet from earlier this month gained popularity, the passenger got a response from Railway Seva.

The user said, “Was eager to board for the first time on Vande Bharat. However, I was startled to find a different train with the name Vande Bharat. Services were atrocious, restrooms were pitiful, and we were being charged the full Vande Bharat fare.

According to his tweet, the event happened on June 10, just before he was supposed to board train 22439 of the Vande Bharat Express. Between New Delhi to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, the train operated.

However, the passenger Pandey claimed that the Tejas Express, which had blocked restrooms and the “worst” amenities, arrived in place of the original train.

His tweet received a lot of attention and quickly sparked a twitter discussion in which several individuals shared their own personal experiences.

One user said, “Some passengers are at fault; they throw wrappers and other things, which causes clogging inside the train toilet.” “Vande Bharat rake may occasionally not be declared suitable for operation on a certain day because of a technical malfunction or maintenance concerns.

Howrah Vande bharat express resumes service on repaired track in Balasore

June 5, 2023, 1:19 pm

Following the resumption of passenger train services in Balasore district, Howrah-Puri Vande Bharat Express successfully traversed the restored railway track in Odisha’s Balasore on Monday. The train services in the area had been disrupted due to the triple train accident that occurred on June 2 near the Bahanaga Baazar station, approximately 250 km south of Kolkata and 170 km north of Bhubaneswar.The accident involved the Bengaluru-Howrah Express, Shalimar-Chennai Coromandel Express, and a goods train. The Indian Railways resumed passenger train operations on the affected route on Monday morning. The tragic triple train accident in Balasore claimed the lives of 275 people and left over 1,000 injured. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Puri-Howrah Vande Bharat Express via video conferencing on May 18.

Meanwhile, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday evening waved at the crew of a goods train and prayed for a safe journey, as services resumed after 51 hours of a train accident in Balasore.

“Services on both tracks have been restored. Normal train services on both lines have now been restored, 51 hours after the accident,” said Ashwini Vaishnaw.
On Sunday, Vaishnaw said the accident occurred due to a “change in electronic interlocking”.Electronic interlocking is an arrangement of signal apparatus that prevents conflicting movements between trains through an arrangement of tracks.

Goa to get its first Vande Bharat train tomorrow, PM Modi to flag off

June 2, 2023, 2:35 pm

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will remotely inaugurate Goa’s inaugural Vande Bharat Express from Madgaon railway station. This technologically advanced train will enhance connectivity on the Mumbai-Goa route, offering the people of the region a faster and more comfortable travel experience. It will be the 19th Vande Bharat Express to operate in the country.

Operating between Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Goa’s Madgaon Station, the train is expected to complete the journey in approximately seven and a half hours, saving around one hour compared to the fastest existing train on this route. With its state-of-the-art amenities and advanced safety features, including KAVACH technology, the indigenously built Vande Bharat Express will also contribute to boosting tourism in both states.

It is worth mentioning that the Indian Railways had previously launched the country’s first indigenous semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express. The inaugural Vande Bharat Express train was flagged off on February 15, 2019, on the New Delhi-Kanpur-Allahabad-Varanasi route.The Vande Bharat Express can run up to a maximum speed of 160 kmph.In his address to the nation on August 15, 2021, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that during the 75 weeks of the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence, 75 Vande Bharat trains will connect every corner of the country.In the Union Budget 2022-23, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that four hundred new-generation Vande Bharat Trains will be manufactured during the next three years.

PM Modi flags off Assam’s first Vande Bharat Express

May 29, 2023, 12:47 pm

On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Assam’s inaugural Vande Bharat Express, which will establish a connection between Guwahati in Assam and Jalpaiguri in West Bengal.

Additionally, the Prime Minister will dedicate the newly electrified sections of New Bongaigaon-Dudhnoi-Mendipather and Guwahati-Chaparmukh to the nation. He will also inaugurate the new DEMU/MEMU workshop shed at Lumding. This service is the first of its kind, offering premium semi-high-speed travel with aesthetically pleasing design, well-equipped facilities, and full air conditioning. It will operate between Guwahati in Assam and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. The introduction of this new service will significantly reduce the current shortest journey time by the fastest train, covering the 411-kilometer distance in 5 hours and 30 minutes.

The Vande Bharat Express train service will operate six days a week discovering the new age rail travel with airlines like travel feelings for people of the northeast who will able to feel the comfort and speed during the journey.This will be the fastest train in this sector and will benefit IT professionals, businessmen, students and tourists.Vande Bharat Express fulfils an ambitious plan laid by Indian Railways to pitchfork the standards and speed of rail travel in the country.

PM Modi to flag off Uttarakhand’s first Vande Bharat Express tomorrow

May 24, 2023, 2:03 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Uttarakhand’s first Vande Bharat Express train via video conferencing on Thursday. The inaugural event at the Dehradun railway station will also be attended by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. This comes after PM Modi recently flagged off the Vande Bharat Express between Puri and Howrah through a similar virtual ceremony.

TUnion Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed the goal of extending the reach of Vande Bharat Express to most states by June, following the launch of the first train in Odisha. It is a self-propelled train set equipped with state-of-the-art features to enhance the overall journey for passengers.

108-foot-tall bronze statue of Bengaluru’s founder Nadaprabhu Kempegowda unveiled by PM Modi

November 11, 2022, 1:24 pm

The 108-foot-tall bronze statue of Bengaluru’s founder, Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, known as the “Statue of Prosperity,” was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday.

The state is being constructed to honour Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, the city’s founder, for his contributions to Bengaluru’s expansion.

“Conceptualized and sculpted by Ram V. Sutar of Statue of Unity fame, 98 tonnes of bronze and 120 tonnes of steel have gone into making this statue,” the PMO said.

The Prime Minister was given a warm welcome on Friday in Bengaluru.

PM Modi inaugurated Terminal 2 of Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport earlier in the day.

The opening of T2 will greatly benefit the people by doubling the capacity for handling passengers and adding check-in and immigration counters.

With a construction budget of roughly Rs 5,000 crore, Terminal 2 will increase annual passenger capacity from 2.5 crore to approximately 5-6 crore.

The passenger experience at Terminal 2 is meant to be like taking a “walk in the garden,” paying homage to Bengaluru’s Garden City.

The 10,000+ square metres of green walls, hanging gardens, and outdoor gardens that passengers will pass through were all created in India using local materials and techniques.

This airport has already set a standard for sustainability thanks to its campus-wide use of 100 percent renewable energy. The design of Terminal 2 incorporates sustainability principles throughout.

“The airport has already established a benchmark in sustainability with 100 percent usage of renewable energy across the campus. Terminal 2 has been created with sustainability principles woven into the design. Based on the sustainability initiatives, Terminal 2 will be the largest terminal in the world to be pre-certified platinum by the US GBC (Green Building Council) prior to commencing operations. The theme of “Naurasa’ unites all the commissioned artworks for Terminal 2. The artworks reflect the heritage and culture of Karnataka as well as the broader Indian ethos,” the PMO said.

Overall, four guiding principles—Terminal in a Garden, sustainability, technology, and art and culture—have had an impact on the design and architecture of Terminal 2.

At Bengaluru’s Kranthiveera Sangolli Rayanna (KSR) Railway Station, he also signalled the departure of the Chennai-Mysuru Vande Bharat Express and the Bharat Gaurav Kashi Darshan Train.

This is South India’s first Vande Bharat Express train and the fifth overall in the nation.

“It will enhance connectivity between the industrial hub of Chennai and the tech and startup hub of Bengaluru and the famous tourist city of Mysuru,” the PMO said.

Under the Bharat Gaurav scheme, in which the government of Karnataka and the ministry of railways collaborate to send pilgrims from Karnataka to Kashi, Karnataka is the first state to board this train.

“The pilgrims will be provided with a comfortable stay and guidance for visiting Kashi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj,” the PMO said.
The Prime Minister paid floral tributes to the statues of saint poet Kanakadasa and Maharshi Valmiki at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.

Stones pelted when Owaisi was in Vande Bharat train

November 8, 2022, 11:35 am

When AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi was traveling in a Vande Bharat train, stones were pelted on him on Monday evening.

Waris Pathan of the AIMIM (All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen) tweeted in Hindi, “This evening when we along with @asadowaisi sir, SabirKabliwala sahab and @aimim_national team were traveling in ‘Vande Bharat Express’ train from Ahmedabad to Surat, some unidentified people broke the glass by pelting stones on the train”.

Pathan has also shared the pictures of the incident on a twitter.

Sumit Thakur, a Western Railways chief public relations officer (PRO), has released a statement after the incident in which he confirmed that the stone was pelted during Owaisi’s journey, but no damage on the inner side of the trains’s glass.

“An incidence of stone hitting the Vande Bharat Express on its way to Mumbai on 7/11/2022 came to light. The incidence occurred between Ankleshwar and Bharuch section. There was a minor damage to the outer glass window of E-2 coach which has been attended and there’s is no damage on the inner side of glass,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, Pathan attacked Bharatiya Janata Party( BJP) in his speech later in a day at an event. He said, “What is happening Modi ji,” he said, referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “Sometimes there are cattle incidents (linked to Vande Bharat) and then this. We were about to reach Surat when a stone suddenly hit the train. The glass was cracked. Then another stone hit. Owaisi sahab was travelling. Irrespective of attacks our voices won’t be silenced,” he said.

Vande Bharat train runs over cattle in Gujarat

October 29, 2022, 2:32 pm

According to officials, a Mumbai-Gandhinagar Vande Bharat Superfast Express train struck a cow on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. near the Atul station in Valsad, Gujarat, breaking the engine’s nose cover.

Since the domestically developed and produced semi-high speed train’s inauguration on September 30, there have been three instances of train-cattle collisions.

Despite being stopped for 20 minutes at the scene of the incident, the train continued on to its destination as planned.

The Western Railway (WR) personnel took the broken nose cover off and put it in the driver carriage before continuing the journey.

“On this hit with cattle, nose-cone cover of front coach or driver coach was damaged with its mounting brackets. The nose cover is designed to absorb the impact without transmitting the same to the functional parts of the train. Railway keeps sufficient nose-cones as spare. This will be replaced with new one in Mumbai Central depot during maintenance after the train returns to Mumbai in the evening,” said Sumit Thakur, chief public relations officer, Western Railway.

Two identical occurrences involving livestock being ran over by the newly launched Vande Bharat Express happened in the first week of October. On October 6, a train travelling from Mumbai to Gandhinagar struck four buffaloes between the railway stations of Vatva and Maninagar in Gujarat, killing them. The damage required an overnight replacement of its nose panel. The second incident happened the following day, on October 7, when the train struck a cow while travelling close to Anand in Gujarat.

After Dahanu Road station, there are no obstacles along the railway route, therefore cattle frequently wander into the lines. The Western Railway conducted awareness campaigns and made different notifications in villages close to the railway route to man the livestock. Western Railway officials stated that every effort is being made to stop accidents of this nature in the future.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the fourth Vande Bharat Express in Una, Himachal Pradesh

October 12, 2022, 11:47 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for the fourth Vande Bharat Express train in Himachal Pradesh’s Una district on Thursday.

According to railway officials, the train will run between Delhi and Himachal Pradesh.

“The semi-high-speed train will run between Delhi and Amb Andaura. It will run on all days except Wednesdays,” a senior railways official told.

“However, the date of commencement of regular service is yet to be decided,” the official added.

The train from New Delhi to Amb Andaura will depart at 5:50am and arrive at 11:05am, while the train from Amb Andaura will depart at 1pm and arrive in New Delhi at 6:25pm.

According to officials, the train will have 16 coaches and will stop in Ambala, Chandigarh, Anandpur Sahib, and Una Himachal.

“This fourth VB train will be covering four states and a union territory making it preferable for travelers,” another railways official said.

The third service in the Vande Bharat series, the indigenously designed semi-high-speed train, was flagged off by PM Modi on September 30 from Gandhinagar Capital, and it began commercial operations on Saturday, October 1.

Vande Bharat Express trains also run between Delhi and Varanasi, as well as between Delhi and Katra.

The new Vande Bharat breaks the bullet train record by reaching 100km/h in 52 seconds

September 10, 2022, 3:50 pm

By achieving a speed of 100 km/hr in just 52 seconds, ‘Vande Bharat’, India’s semi-high-speed train, broke the record of the bullet train on its trial run between Ahmedabad and Mumbai on Friday.

Railways minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said it was a “proud moment for Indian Railways as the trial run of the third rake of the Vande Bharat train was completed and with a green signal from the Railway Safety Commissioner.”

The minister also talked about the ministry’s focus on not just producing trains but maintaining the tracks for running high-speed trains. He admired the new Vande Bharat express and said, “We have shown that a fully loaded water glass has not shaken at the speed of 180kmph, but it shook the world.” The minister also informed us that the production of the rest of 72 trains will start soon as the trial run of Vande Bharat has been successful.

Ashwini said, “The maximum speed of the third Vande Bharat train is 180 kmph, whereas the first generation Vande Bharat trains have a maximum speed of 160 km/h and reach 0-100 kmph in 54.6 seconds.”

Notifying the trial completion, the Western Railways tweeted, “This indigenously prepared self-propelled train is equipped with superior amenities for enhanced passenger travel experience and advanced state-of-the-art safety features.”

A press release by the Railways ministry said that the new Vande Bharat trains would be equipped with WI-FI, 32-inch LCD TVs, energy-efficient ACs with dust-free clean air cooling, and a side recliner seat facility for all classes, which was earlier provided to just executive class passengers.

The improved features also include automatic fire sensors, CCTV cameras, three-hour battery backup, GPS systems, and a photocatalytic ultraviolet air purification system to filter and clean the air free from germs, bacteria, viruses, etc., fresh air, and return air.