November 8, 2025, Varanasi (Banaras): Prime Minister Narendra Modi today flagged off four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Varanasi, marking another milestone in India’s rail modernization journey. The newly launched semi-high-speed trains will run on Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow Junction–Saharanpur, Firozpur Cantt–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru routes. These services are expected to boost connectivity, tourism, and regional trade while offering passengers a faster, more comfortable travel experience.
Quick Overview
- 4 Routes Launched: Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow Junction–Saharanpur, Firozpur Cantt–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru
- Launch Date: November 8, 2025
- Launched From: Varanasi (Banaras)
- Purpose: To enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and promote eco-friendly, high-speed rail travel
About the Launch
The launch event took place in Varanasi, where PM Modi highlighted Vande Bharat Express as a symbol of India’s self-reliance, technological progress, and commitment to world-class infrastructure. These new trains reflect the government’s mission to modernize the Indian Railways network through projects like Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat, and Amrit Bharat initiatives.
Route-by-Route Details
1. Banaras (Varanasi) – Khajuraho Vande Bharat
- Distance: Approximately 443 km
- Travel Time: Around 7 hours 40 minutes
- Key Stops: Prayagraj, Satna, and Mahoba
- Highlights: This route links two major tourist destinations — the spiritual city of Kashi (Varanasi) and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho — promoting heritage and religious tourism in central India.
Lucknow Junction – Saharanpur Vande Bharat
- Frequency: Six days a week (Monday off)
- Departure (Tentative): Lucknow Jn – 05:00 AM
- Arrival (Tentative): Saharanpur – 12:45 PM
- Major Stops: Sitapur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Roorkee
- Impact: This route connects central Uttar Pradesh with western UP and Uttarakhand, improving accessibility for business hubs, industrial towns, and daily commuters.
Firozpur Cantt – Delhi Vande Bharat
- Distance: Around 486 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 6 hours 40 minutes
- Significance: This connection will enhance trade, tourism, and agricultural transportation between Punjab’s border areas and the National Capital Region, offering a modern, high-speed alternative for frequent travelers.
Ernakulam – Bengaluru Vande Bharat
- Time Savings: Around 2 hours faster than existing express services
- Purpose: To strengthen connectivity between Kochi’s industrial zone and Bengaluru’s IT corridor
- Benefit: Ideal for daily commuters, business professionals, and weekend travelers between Kerala and Karnataka
Onboard Features and Passenger Comfort
Each of the new Vande Bharat Express trains comes equipped with:
- Modern design and superior comfort with plush seating and ample legroom
- Automatic doors and sealed gangways for enhanced safety and noise reduction
- Bio-vacuum toilets and energy-efficient lighting systems
- GPS-based information systems for real-time travel updates
- Executive Class coaches featuring rotating seats and personalized lighting
- Enhanced safety features including emergency communication systems and anti-collision tech
Why These Trains Matter
1. Tourism Boost
The Banaras–Khajuraho route is set to attract both domestic and international travelers by connecting two of India’s most iconic cultural destinations.
2. Regional Economic Growth
The Lucknow–Saharanpur and Firozpur–Delhi trains strengthen small and medium industries, agricultural trade, and warehousing connectivity, fueling regional economies.
3. Technological Advancement
Vande Bharat trains represent India’s engineering capabilities, built under the ‘Make in India’ initiative with indigenous design, assembly, and production.
4. Sustainable Transportation
These energy-efficient trains reduce carbon emissions and align with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions in the coming decades.
Travel Tips for Passengers
- Check final schedules and ticket availability on IRCTC before booking, as inaugural runs may differ from commercial timings.
- Expect high demand in the initial weeks—booking is advised.
- Opt for weekday travel if possible to avoid rush-hour congestion.
Broader Vision: India’s Rail Modernization
With this launch, India now moves closer to its target of connecting major cities with semi-high-speed Vande Bharat services. The goal is to have over 200 Vande Bharat trains operational by 2026, covering every state and major cultural circuit.
The government’s vision combines high-speed comfort with affordability, ensuring that rail travel remains the most accessible mode of long-distance transport in India.
Conclusion
The inauguration of these four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Varanasi marks a significant stride toward India’s high-speed rail revolution. By connecting heritage sites, industrial hubs, and tech corridors, these trains not only redefine intercity travel but also reinforce India’s journey toward innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.
