The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express has marked a new era in India’s railway system, significantly reducing travel time while offering enhanced comfort for passengers. The indigenously developed semi-high-speed train is revolutionizing rail journeys across the country, becoming a symbol of modern Indian railways.
Currently, a total of 136 Vande Bharat Express trains are operational across various routes, serving commuters with speed and convenience. The train services are distributed among multiple railway zones, with Central Railway (CR) and South Central Railway (SCR) each operating 8 services. East Coast Railway (ECOR), East Central Railway (ECR), and Eastern Railway (ER) manage 6 services each. Additionally, North Central Railway (NCR) operates 2 services, while North Eastern Railway (NER), Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), South East Central Railway (SECR), and West Central Railway (WCR) each manage 4 services.
Western Railway (WR) and North Western Railway (NWR) each operate 8 Vande Bharat Express trains. Northern Railway (NR) leads the operation with the maximum number of trains at 22, followed by Southern Railway with 20 services, South Eastern Railway (SER) with 16 services, and South Western Railway (SWR) running 10 services. The trains have proven to be a success, with an occupancy rate consistently exceeding 100% on all routes, reported ET Now.
As of October 2024, the total number of passengers traveling aboard the Vande Bharat Express trains has reached an impressive 1,57,57,816, according to ET Now.
Designed for speed and comfort, the Vande Bharat Express comes in three coach variants: 8-car, 16-car, and 20-car trains. The services feature two types of seating arrangements—Chair Car (CC) and Executive Chair Car (EC)—catering to different passenger preferences. In addition to providing a smoother ride, the Vande Bharat Express offers several modern amenities such as automated doors, smoke alarms, CCTV surveillance, and bio-vacuum toilets, ensuring a superior travel experience.
The Vande Bharat Express continues to set new standards in rail travel, furthering India’s commitment to providing efficient, safe, and comfortable transportation options for its citizens.