Indian Railways has entered into a new era of mobility with the introduction of Vande Bharat Express trains on its network. It has planned to introduce 75 such trains by March 2024. It is also expected to roll out two other versions – Vande Metro and Vande Bharat Sleeper Car in the current fiscal.
The blue and white colour train is gaining much popularity among the passengers. It is the fastest train in the country, with a top speed of 180 kmph, while the operational speed is 130 kmph. The travelling on this new age train has reduced the travel time by 25 per cent to 45 per cent.
The national transporter has planned to roll out three more ultra-modern trains in the FY 2023-24 for Jammu and Kashmir,and Northeastern states. It is not yet clear the expected time of the launch but it is expected that it will be introduced once railway lines in both the regions will get electrified.
Vande Bharat for Northeastern states:-
The railways has planned two more semi-high speed trains for the Northeast. Of these, one train will be for Tripura while the other is for Meghalaya. Both the trains are likely to be introduced in the next financial year. The trains will be composed of eight coaches and will have two types of seating arrangements – Executive AC Chair Car and AC Chair Car.
Vande Bharat for Jammu and Kashmir:-
In Jammu and Kashmir, the Vande Bharat Express trains will be launched after the Jammu-Srinagar line becomes functional. The Jammu-Srinagar railway line is expected to start functioning within this financial year. The train for the Union Territory has been designed in an unique way so that they run smoothly in those temperatures and altitudes. The Chennai-based factory is developing Vande Bharat for Jammu and Kashmir region with heating facility inside the compartments as well as for the water lines to avoid freezing.