India’s first Vande Metro is set to make its debut on Monday (September 16) with a virtual flag-off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Gujarat. This new train is poised to transform medium-distance travel in India with its advanced features and efficient design.
The inaugural journey will commence from Bhuj and reach Ahmedabad, covering 359 kilometers in just 5 hours and 45 minutes. The regular service is scheduled to start on September 17, with a ticket price of Rs 455 for the entire journey.
Indian Railways redefining concept of metro travel
Unlike traditional metros which typically operate within urban confines, the Vande Metro is designed for inter-city connectivity, bridging urban centers with surrounding regions. The Railway Ministry highlighted that while the term ‘metro’ often suggests a purely urban transport system, the Vande Metro has been developed with cutting-edge technology and advanced features to cater to a broader travel range.
The Vande Metro represents a significant leap forward in India’s rail transport infrastructure, blending modern amenities with practical design to enhance passenger experience. As the Vande Metro begins its regular service, it is expected to set new standards in inter-city travel, offering comfort, safety, and efficiency for commuters across the country.
Key features of Vande Metro
- Enhanced Speed and Efficiency: Operating at a maximum speed of 110 km/h, the Vande Metro ensures faster acceleration and deceleration, promising quicker commutes and enhanced efficiency for passengers.
- Modern Comfort: The train features ergonomically designed seats, fully air-conditioned cabins, and modular interiors, making it a significant upgrade over traditional metro systems.
- Advanced Safety Systems: Safety is a top priority, with the Vande Metro equipped with KAVACH collision avoidance technology, fire detection systems, aerosol-based fire suppression, and emergency lights.
- Accessibility and Inclusivity: Designed with inclusivity in mind, the Vande Metro offers Divyangjan-friendly toilets, a fully sealed flexible gangway, and meal services. It also includes features such as mobile charging sockets, CCTV surveillance, and a talk-back system for communication with the driver in emergencies.
- Superior Technology: Incorporating under-slung propulsion and advanced braking systems, the Vande Metro provides a smoother and more reliable ride compared to traditional suburban trains. The train boasts a modular design, including ejector-based vacuum evacuation toilets, which represent a significant upgrade from older models.
- Innovative Design: The Vande Metro includes 12 coaches with seating for 1,150 passengers. It features double-leaf automatic sliding doors, similar to those in urban metro systems, and a flexible gangway that maintains a dust-free, quiet, and rain-proof environment.
- Efficient Travel: The train is designed for mid-distance journeys within a 150 km radius, offering efficient travel times of approximately 3 to 4 hours. It features semi-permanent couplers that minimize jerking, ensuring a smoother ride. The presence of driving cabs at both ends of the train eliminates turnaround time, contributing to faster overall travel.