New Service to Offer Vande Bharat-like Amenities at Lower Fares
Key Points:
• Amrit Bharat train targets middle and lower-income groups
• 121 Vande Bharat trains to operate soon across India
• Sleeper coaches coming to Vande Bharat Express
• Plans for Bullet trains and Vande Bharat Metro underway
JAMSHEDPUR – The Indian Railways is set to introduce the Amrit Bharat train in January 2025, catering to budget-conscious travelers.
Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar announced the new service at Tatanagar Railway Station on Sunday.
The Amrit Bharat will feature general and sleeper coaches, ensuring affordability for passengers.
Despite lower fares, the train will maintain facilities similar to the premium Vande Bharat Express.
"We are committed to serving all classes, from general public to executive," Kumar emphasized.
The railways aims to balance affordability with quality amenities in the new service.
Currently, 110 Vande Bharat trains operate across India, with 11 more to be added soon.
The expansion will bring the total number of Vande Bharat Express trains to 121.
Sleeper coaches are also in the pipeline for the Vande Bharat service.
One sleeper rack has been completed, with six others under construction.
These coaches are being developed as part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The Indian Railways is also exploring the introduction of Bullet trains.
Surveys are underway to assess the feasibility of launching Vande Bharat Metro services.
The metro initiative aims to address increasing urban population and traffic issues.
Gujarat is slated to be the first state to benefit from the Vande Bharat Metro service.
Other cities will follow suit based on the success and feasibility studies.
The infrastructure for metro trains and stations will differ significantly from conventional railways.
This new approach promises a more streamlined and efficient experience for urban commuters.
"Our goal is to modernize and diversify our services to meet evolving passenger needs," Kumar stated.
The railways’ multi-pronged approach aims to cater to diverse travel requirements across India.
