Overview
The Indian Railways (IR) will introduce four new Vande Bharat Express trains, expanding the total number of services to 164 across the country. The new routes aim to enhance regional connectivity across Karnataka, Kerala, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and the National Capital Region.
New Routes Announced
| Route | States Covered | Key Purpose |
| Bengaluru (KSR) – Ernakulam | Karnataka, Kerala | Strengthens connectivity between the two southern states |
| Firozpur Cantonment – New Delhi | Punjab, Delhi | Improves access between Punjab and the national capital |
| Varanasi – Khajuraho | Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh | Boosts tourism and inter-state travel |
| Lucknow – Saharanpur | Uttar Pradesh | Enhances intra-state and northwest connectivity |
Timings (Select Routes)
- Bengaluru (KSR) – Ernakulam (Train 26651):
Departs 5:10 AM, arrives 1:50 PM
Return (26652): Departs 2:20 PM, arrives 11:00 PM
Stops: Thrissur, Palakkad, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Erode, Krishnarajapuram
- Firozpur Cantonment – Delhi (Train 26462):
Departs 7:55 AM, arrives 2:35 PM
Return (26461): Departs 4:00 PM, arrives 10:35 PM
Fare and Features
- Estimated Fare Range: ₹900 – ₹3,355 (depending on class and route)
- Key Features:
- Automated doors and sealed gangways
- Advanced safety systems
- Design speed up to 180 km/h (operating at ~160 km/h)
Occupancy and Utilisation
- FY25 occupancy rate: 102.01%
- FY26 (till June 2025): 105.03%
- Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that Vande Bharat trains are operating at over 100% occupancy across all routes.
Summary
The launch of four additional Vande Bharat Express trains will expand high-speed connectivity across multiple states, improve regional access, and enhance passenger convenience. These additions are part of the Railways’ broader initiative to modernize intercity travel with faster, more efficient services.
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