Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express trains from his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi — marking another milestone in India’s rail modernization drive. The newly launched semi-high-speed trains will operate on the Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru routes, connecting key cities and cultural hubs across the country.
Addressing the ceremony, PM Modi said the addition of these Vande Bharat trains reflects the government’s commitment to providing world-class travel experiences while strengthening connectivity, tourism, and economic growth.
The Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express is set to provide a direct link between two of India’s most iconic spiritual and heritage destinations. By reducing travel time by nearly 2 hours and 40 minutes, the train will enable faster access to Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Khajuraho — the UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples. Officials said this route will boost pilgrimage tourism and create new opportunities for local businesses in central India.
The Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat Express, which will complete the journey in about 7 hours and 45 minutes, is expected to transform regional travel in Uttar Pradesh. The train will serve passengers from Lucknow, Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Bijnor, and Saharanpur, while improving access to Haridwar via Roorkee. The route will enhance intercity connectivity across central and western UP and facilitate faster movement of people and goods.
Meanwhile, the Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat Express is now the fastest train on this route, completing the journey in just 6 hours and 40 minutes. The new service will connect Delhi with major cities in Punjab — including Firozpur, Bathinda, and Patiala — providing a modern link that is expected to boost trade, tourism, and employment in border areas.
In southern India, the Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express will cover the distance in 8 hours and 40 minutes, cutting travel time by more than 2 hours. The route will strengthen connectivity between key commercial and IT hubs across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Officials noted that the train will benefit daily commuters, students, and professionals while promoting inter-state tourism and economic cooperation.
