Indian Railways Ensuring Safe and Timely Travel

 Ministry of Railways//Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav//Posted On: 28 OCT 2025 9:01 PM by PIB Delhi

All for Passengers During the Festive Rush Through Comprehensive Arrangements

*12 Lakh Railway Employees Working Round the Clock to Ensure Comfortable Return Travel for Passengers After Chhath Puja

*Indian Railways Running Over 12,000 Special Trains To Ensure Smooth Festive Travel

*Passengers Appreciate Smooth Festive Travel Experience, Including Availability of Confirmed Tickets and Good Arrangements by Indian Railways

Courtesy Image

New Delhi: 28th October 2025: (PIB Delhi//The Rail Screen)::

Despite the heavy passenger rush, Indian Railways has risen to the occasion by ensuring that everyone reaches home safely and timely to celebrate the festivals with their loved ones. Passengers are expressing happiness and satisfaction with the railway’s well-managed festive arrangements. Over 12 lakh railway employees are working round the clock to ensure safe, comfortable, and timely return travel for passengers after Chhath Puja.

Indian Railways is operating over 12,000 special trains between 1st October and 30th November to cater to the increased passenger demand during Diwali and Chhath Puja. These special services have been planned to ensure safe, smooth, and comfortable travel for people across the country. So far, more than 1.6 crore passengers have travelled on these trains, and a similar number is expected to undertake return journeys after the Chhath festival, as Indian Railways continues to provide additional facilities to manage the festive rush efficiently.

To manage the heavy rush, holding areas with passenger amenities have been set up at major stations. A new permanent holding area at New Delhi Station can accommodate over 7,000 passengers and is equipped with 150 toilets each for men and women, ticket counters, automatic ticket vending machines, and free RO water facilities. Indian Railways has also set up dedicated holding areas at 30 stations in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to ensure passenger comfort and organised entry during the festive rush. Use of CCTV surveillance, handheld Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs), and improved passenger movement patterns are being used to ensure smooth operations.

To ensure smooth passenger movement and better coordination, Indian Railways has set up war rooms at the Division, Zone, and Railway Board levels. The Railway Board receives live feeds from all locations, while mini control rooms have been established at major stations. This real-time monitoring system helps coordinate operations across the country, track station conditions, and assess the need for additional trains and other requirements.

Passengers Express Happiness Over Festive Travel Arrangements by Indian Railways

Passengers travelling during the festive season are sharing their experiences and expressing happiness with the confirmed tickets, arrangements, and overall travel experience provided by Indian Railways. To handle the massive festive rush, Railway staff across the country are actively guiding passengers, maintaining order at stations, and ensuring smooth onboarding and deboarding. Continuous monitoring, efficient crowd management, and timely coordination are helping ensure that every passenger reaches their destination safely, comfortably, and on time.

A passenger travelling from New Delhi to Chhapra expressed happiness at getting confirmed tickets to celebrate Chhath with his sister and thanked Indian Railways for the arrangement. At Bhagalpur, a traveller appreciated the festive atmosphere created by Chhath songs, while in Pune, another passenger praised the well-organised holding area with water, fans, and proper seating arrangements.

त्योहारों के समय भारतीय रेल द्वारा चलाई जा रही स्पेशल ट्रेन सेवाओं व स्टेशनों पर यात्रियों के लिए किए गए बंदोबस्त से यात्रियों दिखे खुश।#FestivalSpecialArrangements#YatriSewa pic.twitter.com/JmkCN5PCKp

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) October 27, 2025

Passengers at Bhagalpur appreciated the improved festive arrangements made by Indian Railways during Chhath Puja. A passenger shared that the arrangements were excellent, adding that with Chhath songs playing at the station, a festive atmosphere had been created.

Passengers at Bhagalpur appreciated the improved Festive Special arrangements by the Ministry of Railways during Chhath Puja.#YatriSeva #FestivalSpecialArrangements@RailMinIndia @AshwiniVaishnaw @RavneetBittu @DrLMurugan @PIB_India @airnewsalerts @DDNewslive pic.twitter.com/5ReOFuq1li

— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) October 26, 2025

Highlighting Indian Railways’ dedication to passenger care, staff at Howrah Railway Station provided assistance to a Divyang passenger, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for their support.

हावड़ा रेलवे स्टेशन पर रेल कर्मचारियों के द्वारा दिव्यांग यात्री की सहायता कर सेवा और समर्पण का परिचय दिया गया।यात्री द्वारा भारतीय रेल का आभार व्यक्त किया गया।#YatriSewa #FestivalSpecialArrangements pic.twitter.com/oYYmBcG6vS

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) October 24, 2025  

 A passenger thanked Indian Railways for confirmed tickets and cleanliness, while another appreciated the security and safety on board. A traveller from Jabalpur praised the staff for their punctuality and helpfulness.

भारतीय रेल की स्पेशल ट्रेन सेवाओं ने त्योहारों में यात्रियों को बेहतर सुविधाओं के साथ सुखद सफर का अनुभव कराया। यात्रियों द्वारा भारतीय रेल की व्यवस्थाओं की प्रशंसा की गई ।#FestivalSpecialArrangements#YatriSewa pic.twitter.com/Xq0Q8JxRzv

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) October 25, 2025

A passenger travelling from New Delhi to Bihar to celebrate Chhath said the arrangements were excellent, cleanliness was commendable, and the confirmed seat was comfortable. 

स्पेशल ट्रेन सेवाओं के साथ हर सफर खास ,

यात्रियों ने बताया, त्योहारों में रेल यात्रा बनी और भी सुगम व आरामदायक।#YatriSewa #FestivalSpecialArrangements pic.twitter.com/FvV1pKUUpV

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) October 25, 2025

 A passenger travelling from Bandra Terminus to Barauni said that everything was well-organised, from getting a confirmed seat to entering the station gates, and also appreciated the RPF’s efforts.

भारतीय रेल की स्पेशल ट्रेन में सफर कर रहे यात्रियों ने दी सकारात्मक प्रतिक्रिया, कहा, सुविधाएँ और स्वच्छता दोनों बेहतरीन। pic.twitter.com/aFWqXgjDw6

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) October 22, 2025

 A passenger praised the efficient railway system, smooth online ticketing, orderly queues, and the RPF’s vigilance in ensuring safety and proper seat allocation during the festive rush.

Indian Railways is committed to providing safe, comfortable, and seamless travel during the festive season. Over 12 lakh dedicated employees are working round the clock to ensure smooth operations and a pleasant journey for every passenger. From running extra trains to maintaining cleanliness, safety, and punctuality, every effort is made to offer an efficient and reliable travel experience.

त्योहारों के समय में स्टेशन की स्वच्छता और सुविधाओं ने यात्रियों को किया प्रभावित।#FestivalSpecialArrangements#YatriSewa pic.twitter.com/4dDKdAPuDJ

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) October 22, 2025

***Dharmendra Tewari/ Dr. Nayan Solanki/ Manik Sharma***(Release ID: 2183536)

7 New Trains Dedicated to Bihar

Ministry of Railways//Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav//New Trains//Posted On: 29 SEP 2025 2:32PM by PIB Delhi

Including 3 Amrit Bharat Express and 4 Passenger Trains 

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary Flag Off New Trains; Total Amrit Bharat Express Services Rises to 30 Across Country, with 26 Services Originating from Bihar

Symbolic File Photo

Passenger Trains to Enhance Connectivity within Bihar; Amrit Bharat Express to Connect Bihar with Telangana, Rajasthan, and Delhi

Bihar’s Annual Railway Budget Rises from ₹1,000 Crore Before 2014 to ₹10,000 Crore in 2025, With Around ₹1 Lakh Crore Projects Underway: Ashwini Vaishnaw

21 Major Railway Projects like New Lines, Gauge Conversion, Doubling or Adding 3rd & 4th lines etc. Fully Commissioned in Bihar Since 2014, Including Patna & Munger Rail-Cum-Road Bridges

New Delhi: 29th September 2025:(PIB Delhi//The Rail Screen Desk)::

Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, today flagged off a total of seven new trains in Bihar, including three Amrit Bharat Express trains. These new trains will provide a new dimension to connectivity in Bihar and offer passengers enhanced travel services. With the inauguration of these new trains, Bihar now has a total of 26 Amrit Bharat Express services operational out of the 30 services, running across the country.

माननीय रेल मंत्री @AshwiniVaishnaw जी एवं बिहार के उप मुख्यमंत्री @samrat4bjp जी ने आज 3 #AmritBharatExpress सहित कुल 7 नई रेल सेवाओं को हरी झंडी दिखाकर रवाना किया। #RailInfra4Bihar pic.twitter.com/PtzM6XYnAp

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) September 29, 2025 

The Muzaffarpur–Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express is the first Amrit Bharat train from Muzaffarpur to South India, while the Chhapra–Anand Vihar Amrit Bharat Express became the sixth Amrit Bharat train from Bihar to Delhi.

This state-of-the-art indigenous train will provide passengers with a fast, safe, and comfortable travel experience. These trains will strengthen Bihar’s connectivity with different parts of the country, particularly North and South India. Their operations will boost economic activities in the state and create new opportunities in tourism, trade, and employment.

During the occasion, speaking via video conference, the Union Minister said that the pace of development in Bihar is such that the state is set to emerge as a golden state in the near future. These trains will provide a new level of connectivity in Bihar, enhancing convenience for passengers and accelerating the state’s overall development. The Union Minister added that since PM Modi assumed office in 2014, he has prioritized the Railways, with a special focus on the States. The Minister noted that earlier, the annual railway budget for Bihar was only around ₹1,000 crore before 2014, whereas today it stands at about ₹10,000 crore. He said PM Modi has presented a significant vision for Bihar’s development, with projects worth around ₹1 lakh crore underway in Bihar. He also said the state’s railway network has been fully electrified, and 1,899 km of new track has been laid.

Developed by Indian Railways, the Amrit Bharat Express has become a symbol of modernization in the country’s railway system. The train is not just a fast and affordable travel option, but it also comes equipped with advanced features such as semi-automatic couplers, fire detection systems, sealed gangways, and talk-back units. For the first time, such an advanced technology has been introduced in non-AC coaches enhancing passenger safety.

This marks an important step towards realizing the vision of “Viksit Bihar Se Viksit Bharat” (Developed India through a Developed Bihar).

Brief Details of Amrit Bharat Express Trains:

Darbhanga – Ajmer (Madar) Amrit Bharat Express

 Muzaffarpur – Hyderabad (Charlapalli) Amrit Bharat Express

 Chapra – Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal) Amrit Bharat Express

Keeping in mind the needs of the common public in rail services, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary also flagged off four passenger trains.

Brief Details of Passenger Trains:

Patna–Buxar Passenger

 Jhajha–Danapur Passenger

 Nawada – Patna Passenger

 Patna – Islampur Passenger

Highlighting some key railway projects completed in the state, the Minister said that the 28 km Patna Rail-cum-Road Bridge, 15 km Munger Rail-cum-Road Bridge, and the long-awaited Kosi Bridge have all been completed.

Important Projects Fully Commissioned since 2014

Patna Rail-cum-Road Bridge

Munger Rail-cum-Road Bridge

Kosi Bridge

Daniawan–Biharsharif New Line

Chandan–Banka New Line

Rampurhat–Mandarhill New Line

Maharajganj–Masrakh New Line

Rajgir–Tilaiya & Natesar–Islampur New Line

Mansi–Saharsa–Purnia Gauge Conversion

Jaynagar–Narkatiaganj Gauge Conversion

Kaptanganj–Chapra Gauge Conversion

Sakri–Nirmali & Saharasa–Forbesganj Gauge Conversion

Mansi–Saharsa–Saharasa–Purnia & Banmankhi–Bihariganj Gauge Conversion

Sahibganj–Pirpainti Doubling

Maheshkunth–Thanabhpur Doubling

Hajipur–Ramdayalu Nagar Doubling

Pirpainti–Bhagalpur Doubling

Bakhtiyarpur–Barh Doubling

Kiul–Gaya Doubling

Hajipur–Bachhwara Doubling

Darbhanga Bypass

Additionally, the Araria–Galgalhia (Thakurganj) New Line has been completed and will be inaugurated shortly.

Main Projects Under Execution

New Lines: Sakri–Hasanpur, Khagaria–Kusheshwarsthan, Kursela–Bihariganj, Tilaiya–Koderma, Hajipur–Sugauli, Sitamarhi–Sheohar, Chhapra–Muzaffarpur, Araria–Supaul, Vikramsihla–Katareah (incl. Ganga Bridge), Jhajha–Batia, Pirpainti–Jasidih, Chhitautini–Tumkui Road, Jalalgarni–Kishanganj, Jogbani–Biratnagar, Aurangabad Terminal–Anugrah Narayan Road, Jaynagar–Bijalpura, Dhanbad–Sonngar, etc.

Doubling 3rd/4th Line Works: Samastipur–Darbhanga, Sagauli–Valmikinagar, Muzaffarpur–Sagauli, Narkatiaganj–Darbhanga–Sitamarhi–Muzaffarpur, Chhapra–Ballia, Katihar–Kumedpur, Barauni–Bachhwara (3rd & 4th Line), Sonnagar–Andal (3rd & 4th Line), Punarakh–Bhaktiyarpur (3rd & 4th Line), etc.

Union Minister Vaishnaw added that work is ongoing on several other projects, and planning for additional projects is underway. Currently, 13 Amrit Bharat Express trains i.e. 26 services are operating in Bihar, covering 42 stops across 25 districts. In addition, 10 pairs of trains (20 services) of Vande Bharat services cover 28 districts. The state also has Namo Bharat Rapid Rail services in operation.

These new trains originating from Bihar will make travel across different regions of the state more convenient, boosting economic and social activities. The purpose of these trains is not only to provide better connectivity but also to offer passengers safe, fast, and comfortable travel.

*****//Dharmendra Tewari/ Dr. Nayan Solanki/ Manik Sharma//(Release ID: 2172674) 

12,000+ Special Trains for Diwali & Chhath

Ministry of Railways//Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav//Posted on 21 AUG 2025 at 2:09 PM by PIB Delhi

20% Discount on Return Tickets for Onward Journeys 

Image By Meta AI 

New Delhi: 21st August 2025:(PIB Delhi//The Rail Screen Desk//Image by Meta AI)::

Four New Amrit Bharat Express Trains Connecting Bihar to Delhi, Amritsar, and Hyderabad: Railway Minister

Vande Bharat Express Between Purnia and Patna ; Buddhist Circuit Train Connecting  Vaishali, Hajipur, Sonepur, Patna, Rajgir, Gaya and Koderma:Ashwini Vaishnaw

Big Rail Expansion for Bihar: Buxar–Lakhisarai to Become Four-Line Corridor, Patna Ring Railway, Sultanganj–Deoghar Rail Link, and Patna–Ayodhya Train

Festival season is becoming more interesting with new announcements by Indian Railway. According to railway sources 12,000+ Special Trains wul run for Diwali & Chhath. Railway also announced 20% Discount on Return Tickets for Onward Journeys Between October 13 to 26 & Return Journeys Between November 17 to December 1. Ie was declared by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

For the convenience of passengers during Diwali and Chhath festivals, Indian Railways has decided to operate more than 12,000 special trains.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, while addressing the press at Rail Bhawan, said that after discussions with Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, MP Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal, Union Minister Lalan Singh, and MP Sanjay Kumar Jha, it was decided to make special arrangements for the upcoming Diwali and Chhath festivals. He emphasized that passengers should also be facilitated during their return journey.

After consultations with senior public representatives, it was decided that over 12,000 special trains will run for Diwali and Chhath. At the same time, due care will be taken to ensure passengers face no difficulties during their return travel, the minister said.

He further announced that passengers undertaking onward journeys between October 13 to 26 and return journeys between November 17 to December 1 will be offered a 20% discount on return tickets. This initiative will be implemented during this festive season and will benefit a large number of people.

In addition, four new Amrit Bharat Express trains will be introduced from Gaya to Delhi, Saharsa to Amritsar, Chhapra to Delhi, and Muzaffarpur to Hyderabad. A new circuit train, covering important sites related to Lord Buddha and catering especially to middle-class families, will also be launched, covering Vaishali, Hajipur, Sonepur, Patna, Rajgir, Gaya and Koderma, the minister announced.

The Buxar–Lakhisarai rail section will be expanded into a four-line corridor, enabling more train operations. A ring railway system will be developed around Patna. Sultanganj and Deoghar will be connected by rail. A new train service will also run between Patna and Ayodhya. A washing pit facility will be set up at Laukaha Bazar, and work will be carried out on several newly approved road overbridges in Bihar, shri Ashwini Vaishnaw added.

Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, MP Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal, and MP Sanjay Kumar Jha expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving more projects for Bihar and for the launch of several new trains, including Amrit Bharat and Vande Bharat.

Railways Rationalises Basic Fare for Passenger Train Services

Ministry of Railways//Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav//Posted On: 30th June 2025 6:01 PM by PIB Delhi

No increase up to 500 Km in ordinary class

New Delhi: 30th June 2025: (PIB New Delhi//The Rail Screen Desk)::

No increase up to 500 Km in ordinary class; Increase of Rs.5 for distance 501 to 1500 Km & Rs.10 for distances up to 2500 Km & Rs.15 for distance slab 2501 to 3000 Km

In a move aimed at streamlining fare structures and enhancing financial sustainability of passenger services, the Ministry of Railways has rationalised the basic fare of Passenger train services, effective from 01 July 2025. The revised fares are based on the updated Passenger Fare Table issued by the Indian Railway Conference Association (IRCA).

Key Highlights of Fare Rationalisation (Effective from 1st July 2025):

No change in Suburban single journey fares and Season Tickets (for both suburban and non-suburban routes).

For Ordinary Non-AC Classes (Non-suburban trains):

Second Class: Increased by Half Paisa per Kilometre subject to condition that

No increase up to 500 Km

Increase by Rs.5 for distance 501 to 1500 Km

Increase by Rs.10 for distance 1501 to 2500 Km

Increase by Rs.15 for distance 2501 to 3000 Km

Sleeper Class: Increased by 0.5 paisa per kilometre

 First Class: Increased by 0.5 paisa per kilometre

 For Mail/Express Trains (Non-AC):

Second Class: Increased by 01 paisa per kilometre

Sleeper Class: Increased by 01 paisa per kilometre

First Class: Increased by 01 paisa per kilometre

For AC Classes (Mail/Express trains):

AC Chair Car, AC 3-Tier/3-Economy, AC 2-Tier, and AC First/Executive Class/Executive Anubhuti: Increased by 02 Paisa per kilometre

The fare revision also applies to premier and special train services such as Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Tejas, Humsafar, Amrit Bharat, Mahamana, Gatimaan, Antyodaya, Jan Shatabdi, Yuva Express, AC Vistadome coaches, Anubhuti coaches, and Ordinary non-suburban services, in accordance with the revised class-wise fare structure.

No Change in Ancillary Charges:

Reservation fees, superfast surcharges, and other charges remain unchanged.

GST will continue to be levied as per applicable rules.

Fare rounding principles remain as per existing norms.

 Implementation

Revised fares will apply to tickets booked on or after 01.07.2025. Tickets issued before this date will remain valid at the existing fare without any fare adjustment. PRS, UTS, and manual ticketing systems are being updated accordingly.

The Ministry of Railways has issued necessary instructions to all Zonal Railways to ensure smooth implementation of the revised fare structure.Zonal Railways have also been directed to update fare displays at all stations.

To view the revised Passenger Fare Table,Click Here

*****//Dharmendra Tewari/ Shatrunjay Kumar//(Release ID: 2140857)

Only Aadhaar authenticated user can book Tatkal tickets

Ministry of Railways//Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav//Posted on Wednesday 11th June 2025 at 4:27 PM by PIB Delhi

It will start on IRCTC Website and App from July 1

*No Agent Bookings in First 30 Minutes for AC & Non-AC Classes

*OTP based identity authentication Must for online as well as Tatkal Bookings at PRS Counters & Through authorised Agents from July 15

New Delhi: 11th June 2025: (by PIB Delhi//The Rail Screen Desk)::

With an aim to ensure fair and transparent access to Tatkal tickets and to safeguard the interests of genuine passengers, Indian Railways has announced key modifications in the Tatkal ticket booking system. These changes are aimed at enhancing user authentication and reducing misuse of the scheme.

The new provisions are as follows:

1. Aadhaar Authentication for Online Tatkal Bookings:

Effective 1st July 2025, Tatkal tickets booked through IRCTC’s official website and mobile app will be available only to users authenticated with Aadhaar.

Further, Aadhaar-based OTP authentication will become mandatory for Tatkal bookings made online starting 15th July 2025.

2. System-Based OTP Authentication at PRS Counters and Agents:

Tatkal tickets booked at Computerized Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters and through authorised agents will require OTP authentication sent to the mobile number provided by the user at the time of booking.

This provision will also come into effect from 15th July 2025.

3. Booking Time Restriction for Authorised Agents:

To prevent bulk bookings during the critical opening period, authorised ticketing agents of Indian Railways will not be permitted to book opening-day Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window.

For AC classes, this restriction applies from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM, and for non-AC classes, from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

These changes are being implemented to improve transparency in Tatkal bookings and to ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach genuine end users.

CRIS and IRCTC have been instructed to make necessary system modifications and inform all Zonal Railways and concerned departments accordingly.

The Ministry of Railways urges all passengers to take note of these changes and encourages everyone to ensure Aadhaar linkage with their IRCTC user profiles to avoid inconvenience.

****//Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar//(रिलीज़ आईडी: 2135694)

Vande Bharat trains and Amrit stations are creating a new form of railways

Ministry of Railways//Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsavg20-India-2023//Posted Date: 06 October 2024 at 5:42 PM by PIB Delhi

Shri Ashwini Vaishnav explained the new face of railway in India

Rs 14700 crore allocated for the development of railways in Madhya Pradesh 

New Delhi: 06 October 2024: (PIB Delhi//Rail Screen Desk)::

Union Minister of Railways, Information and Broadcasting, Electronics and Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnav, today inaugurated the newly constructed railway section after gauge conversion between Jaura Alapur and Kailaras stations in Madhya Pradesh through video conferencing and flagged off the extended service of three new trains on the gauge converted rail section. This inauguration ceremony was organized at Jaura Alapur Railway Station in Madhya Pradesh. Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, Speaker of Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly Shri Narendra Singh Tomar and Morena MP Shri Shivmangal Singh Tomar were present at the function.

Addressing the people present at the venue through video conferencing, Railway Minister Ashwini Shri Vaishnav said that railways is the vehicle of the poor and the middle class. To provide better facilities to the general public, orders have been given to manufacture 12,500 general and sleeper coaches. He said that work is being done to give a new look to Indian Railways through Vande Bharat Express, Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and Vande Bharat Sleeper Train. He said that in the period from 2004 to 14, an average provision of Rs 632 crore was made for the development of railways in Madhya Pradesh, but under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, a provision of Rs 14,700 crore has been made for the development of railways in Madhya Pradesh in this year's budget.

Union Minister Shri Vaishnav said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Railway Administration is constantly striving to make Indian Railways convenient and comfortable for the common man. North Central Railway is also working rapidly in this direction. He said that Gwalior Chambal region is very important from the railway point of view. It is well connected through train services to all parts of the country including the four metropolitan cities of the country. We are trying to make this connection more strong. These efforts of ours always get the support of Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya Madhavrao Scindia ji, Speaker of Legislative Assembly Madhya Pradesh Shri Narendra Singh Tomar ji, Honorable MP Morena Shri Shivmangal Singh Tomar ji. He said that the state of Madhya Pradesh has a central role in the rail map of India. The state has seen significant progress in its rail infrastructure, which reflects the national trend of increasing investment in this sector. In the last 10 years, 222 km of new rail line projects, 1200 km of multi-tracking projects and 707 km of gauge conversion projects have been completed in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Along with improving connectivity in Madhya Pradesh, security has also been increased by using drones and GPS trackers for disaster management and project monitoring. This work has been done for the first time in India. Along with providing passenger services, Gwalior and Khajuraho stations are also being redeveloped.

In the program, the Union Railway Minister informed that the Gwalior-Sheopurkala (188 kms) gauge conversion project is going to be completed at a cost of Rs. 2355/- crore, in which a total of 61 km track work has been completed so far, the remaining work is going on at a fast pace, which will be completed as soon as possible and this upgraded service will be available to the people of the area. This new 13 km section has been constructed at a cost of Rs 163 crore. Under this project, the work of gauge conversion under entire Sheopurkalan will be completed by July 2025 next year.

With this, the Railway Minister expressed hope that the start of this project will help in socio-economic development of Morena district of Madhya Pradesh, industrial development in the region and providing infrastructure for employment opportunities, as well as reducing the cost of transportation of goods and increasing the number of trains and ease of transportation of goods will promote economic development. This line will soon be extended to Kota.

Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia said that today Jaura is getting such a gift, which the people of this region were dreaming of for a long time. The work of bringing revolution in railways has been done by Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnav under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Indian Railways is also continuously developing in the Northeast. Railway lines have been laid in 6 states of the Northeast. Today a new history is being written in the development of Madhya Pradesh with this gauge conversion. Now we are eagerly waiting for this railway line to be extended to Kota. In his address at the programme, the Speaker of Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Mr Narendra Singh Tomar said that the people of the region have struggled for a long time for this gauge conversion. Today, with the expansion of this rail service, Jaura Alapur and Kailaras will be connected to the mainstream of development. Hon'ble MP Morena, Mr Shivmangal Singh Tomar expressed his gratitude to the Railway Minister and said that the people of the region are very happy with the start of this MEMU train. We hope that this development journey will continue.

The guests were welcomed on the stage by the Additional General Manager of North Central Railway, Mr J.S. Lakra and Divisional Railway Manager Mr Deepak Kumar Sinha. Welcoming the guests, Divisional Railway Manager Mr Deepak Kumar Sinha said that with the operation of this rail service, the people of the region will be able to connect with Kota in future via Gwalior-Sheopur. This gauge conversion is a living example that Jhansi Division is always striving to realize the spirit of "Customer Service with a Smile". On this occasion, MLA of Sabalgarh Smt. Sarla Bijendra Rawat, District Panchayat President Smt. Aarti Gurjar along with eminent citizens of the area, Jhansi Division Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Aman Verma along with various officers of the Division and respected citizens were present.

*****//Dharmendra Tiwari/Shatrunjay Kumar//(Release ID: 2062646)

First AC car provides shower with hot water-Vande Bharat

Ministry of Railways//Posted On: 03 OCT 2024 6:10 PM//PIB Delhi

Pleasant rail journey: Story of Vande Bharat Express 

New Delhi: 03 October 2024: (PIB//Rail Screen Desk):

The Government of India has made significant efforts towards strengthening the 'Make in India' campaign. As an excellent example of the success story of 'Make in India', Indian Railways launched India's first indigenous semi-high-speed train, Vande Bharat Express. It has become a symbol of India's aspirations for modern, efficient and comfortable rail travel.

On February 15, 2019, the first Vande Bharat Express train running at a speed of 160 kmph on the New Delhi-Kanpur-Allahabad-Varanasi route was flagged off. Indian Railways is operating a total of 102 Vande Bharat train services (51 trains), connecting states with Broad Gauge (BG) electrified network. During FY 2022-23, around 31.84 lakh were booked to travel on Vande Bharat trains. The overall occupancy of Vande Bharat trains during this period has been 96.62%.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 31, 2024 flagged off three Vande Bharat trains through video conferencing, which will enhance connectivity in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. These state-of-the-art trains, embodying the Prime Minister's vision of 'Make in India' and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, will improve transport links on three major routes (Meerut City-Lucknow, Madurai-Bengaluru, Chennai Egmore-Nagercoil).

Vande Bharat trains will provide a world-class travel experience to the residents of these regions by ensuring speed as well as comfort. These trains are equipped with top-class amenities and advanced safety features such as Kavach technology, 360-degree rotating seats, accessible toilets for Divyangjans and integrated Braille signage, etc.

Meerut City-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express

Meerut City-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express is the first Vande Bharat service connecting Meerut to Lucknow. The train is expected to give a major boost to religious tourism in the region by providing a faster and more efficient travel option to various pilgrimage sites including Digambar Jain Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Surajkund Temple, Aughadnath Temple and Hanuman Chowk Temple in Meerut and Chandrika Devi Temple, Bhootnath Temple and Buddheshwar Mahadev Temple in Lucknow. Additionally, the Vande Bharat Express will provide a major boost to industries such as sports goods, musical instruments, sugar and electronics in the Meerut region by improving quick connectivity to the capital of Uttar Pradesh.

Madurai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express

Madurai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express is the first Vande Bharat train connecting Madurai to Bengaluru via the Tiruchirapalli route. This service will connect the vibrant temple city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu to the metropolitan city of Bengaluru, the capital of the state of Karnataka. Additionally, it will provide convenient travel for business professionals, students, working personnel and other passengers travelling from their hometowns in Tamil Nadu to the metropolitan hub of Bengaluru.

Chennai Egmore- Nagercoil Vande Bharat

Chennai Egmore- Nagercoil Vande Bharat is the first Vande Bharat train connecting the beautiful city of Nagercoil to Chennai. Covering a distance of 726 km within Tamil Nadu, this train offers a modern and faster travel experience to residents of 12 districts including Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Virudhunagar Madurai, Dindigul, Trichy, Perambalur, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai. This service will also greatly benefit pilgrims visiting the divine Arulmighu Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai and Kumari Amman Temple in Kanyakumari.

India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset at BEML's Bangalore Rail Complex on September 1, 2024. The trainset has been indigenously designed and manufactured by BEML, India's leading rail and metro manufacturer.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper train set is expected to revolutionise long-distance rail travel in India and set new benchmarks for comfort, safety and efficiency. The train is equipped with several world-class features, including an integrated reading light with USB charging provision, public announcement and visual information system, inside display panels and security cameras, modular pantry and exclusive berths and toilets for differently-abled passengers.

Additionally, the First AC car offers shower with hot water, enhancing passenger comfort. Meticulously engineered with utmost detailing, the trainset prioritises both aesthetic appeal and functionality in all elements from the front nose cone to the interior panels, seats, sleeper berths and more.

BEML has pioneered the integration of critical systems including electrical, propulsion, bogies, external plug doors, brake system and HVAC, ensuring seamless integration and maximum performance across the trainset. The entire manufacturing and assembly process is consolidated at BEML, underlining the company's commitment to quality and precision.

Conclusion

Vande Bharat Express has revolutionised rail travel in India by offering a unique combination of speed, comfort and safety. With the continued expansion of this service, Indian Railways aims to further enhance connectivity across the country, contribute to economic growth and regional development.

The success of Vande Bharat Express is a testimony to India's capabilities in indigenous manufacturing and is an important step towards realising the vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'.

Santosh Kumar/Sheetal Angral/Ritu Kataria/Aswathi Nair//(Backgrounder ID: 153234)