A New Era of Speed and Comfort
Launched in 2019, the Vande Bharat Express is a testament to India’s engineering prowess and commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure. Designed and manufactured domestically under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, these trains are self-propelled electric multiple units (EMUs) capable of reaching speeds up to 160 km/h. Beyond speed, they offer a plethora of amenities, including on-board Wi-Fi, infotainment systems, comfortable seating, automatic doors, and advanced safety features like CCTV surveillance and smoke alarms. The energy-efficient design further underscores India’s dedication to sustainable travel.
Expansion Across the Nation
The Vande Bharat network has seen exponential growth. By the end of 2024, Indian Railways had launched over 30 new Vande Bharat trains, bringing the total to 136 operational services. This expansion has significantly enhanced connectivity between major cities and regions.
In January 2025, two 20-coach Vande Bharat trains were introduced in Kerala, operating between Thiruvananthapuram and Kasaragod. These trains depart from Thiruvananthapuram at 5:15 AM, arriving in Kasaragod by 1:20 PM, and make the return journey starting at 2:30 PM, reaching Thiruvananthapuram by 10:40 PM. This development has not only increased passenger capacity but also reduced travel time across the state.
The Vande Bharat Express has also made its mark in Jammu and Kashmir. A significant milestone was achieved when the train crossed the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, in January 2025. This feat symbolizes enhanced connectivity and the promise of economic growth in the region.
Impact on Domestic Travel
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express has had a profound impact on domestic travel dynamics. Its growing popularity, especially on shorter routes, has prompted airlines to reassess their fare structures. Estimates indicate that airfares have decreased by 20-30% on routes where the Vande Bharat operates, such as Chennai-Bengaluru and Delhi-Jaipur. This shift suggests a preference among travelers for the comfort and efficiency of train travel over air travel for certain distances.
Moreover, the Vande Bharat trains have become a preferred choice among younger passengers and the working class. Data reveals that approximately 56% of travelers on these trains fall within the 25-49 age bracket, highlighting a trend towards modern rail travel among India’s youth and professionals.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Indian Railways is poised to continue its modernization efforts. Plans are underway to introduce Vande Bharat sleeper trains, with trial runs expected to commence soon. These trains aim to enhance long-distance travel by offering overnight journey options with improved comfort and reduced travel times.
The government’s commitment to upgrading the rail network is evident in its substantial investments. In the current fiscal year, over $22 billion has been allocated for projects focused on expanding capacity and enhancing travel speed and safety. This financial commitment underscores the strategic importance of rail infrastructure in India’s economic development and its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Conclusion
The Vande Bharat Express stands as a symbol of India’s transportation revolution. Its rapid expansion and the positive reception from passengers reflect a significant shift towards efficient, comfortable, and sustainable travel. As the network continues to grow, the Vande Bharat Express is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of domestic travel in India, offering a compelling alternative to traditional modes of transportation and contributing to the nation’s economic and environmental objectives.
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