Varanasi, Nov 7: In a major boost to India’s high-speed rail network, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will flag off four new Vande Bharat Express trains on November 8 at around 8:15 AM during his visit to Varanasi, officials on Friday.

This initiative marks another milestone in the government’s commitment to modernizing rail travel and enhancing regional connectivity.

Connecting Culture and Commerce
The new trains will operate on the Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru routes. These additions are expected to significantly reduce travel time, improve intercity mobility, and promote tourism and trade across multiple states.

Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat

This train will save approximately 2 hours 40 minutes and connect key spiritual and cultural hubs like Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Khajuraho. It will offer pilgrims and tourists a faster, more comfortable journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho.

Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat

Covering the route in 7 hours 45 minutes, this train will benefit travelers from central and western Uttar Pradesh, including Sitapur, Bareilly, and Moradabad. It also improves access to Haridwar via Roorkee.

Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat

The fastest train on this route, it will complete the journey in 6 hours 40 minutes. It strengthens links between Delhi and Punjab’s key cities like Bathinda and Patiala, boosting trade and employment in border regions.

Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat

Reducing travel time by over 2 hours, this train will connect major IT and commercial hubs in Kerala and Karnataka. It supports regional growth and offers a modern travel option for professionals and tourists.

Towards a Faster Future
These new services reflect the Prime Minister’s vision of world-class railways that are efficient, inclusive, and transformative. By enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time, the Vande Bharat trains continue to redefine intercity travel in India.