Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three new Vande Bharat trains through a virtual event on Saturday, showcasing a significant advancement in India’s railway infrastructure. The new routes—Meerut-Lucknow, Madurai-Bengaluru, and Chennai-Nagercoil—highlight the government’s commitment to modernizing transportation as part of its vision for a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
During the ceremony, PM Modi emphasized the transformative impact of these trains on the nation’s connectivity and development. He described the expansion of the Vande Bharat network as a milestone that reflects India’s progress towards achieving modernity and speed in its infrastructure.
“Today, we mark the addition of another chapter in our country’s development journey, from the north to the south,” Modi stated. He praised the Vande Bharat trains for enhancing travel efficiency and improving connectivity between significant cities and religious destinations. The new routes are expected to facilitate smoother travel for both pilgrims and everyday commuters.
The Prime Minister highlighted the strategic importance of the Madurai-Bengaluru route, which links the historic Temple City of Madurai with the bustling IT hub of Bengaluru. This connection is anticipated to benefit tourists and pilgrims alike, boosting regional tourism and economic activity. Similarly, the Chennai-Nagercoil route will cater to a diverse range of passengers, including students, farmers, and IT professionals, fostering greater economic interaction and local development.
“By improving convenience and connectivity, these Vande Bharat trains will not only enhance travel experiences but also stimulate tourism, increase local business revenues, and generate new job opportunities,” Modi said. He stressed that the benefits of these new services extend beyond mere transportation, contributing to broader economic growth.
Modi also underscored the importance of accelerating development in southern India, citing the government’s substantial investments in railway infrastructure. Tamil Nadu has received over Rs 6,000 crores in this year’s budget—more than seven times the allocation in 2014. The state’s fleet of Vande Bharat trains will increase from six to eight with this expansion. Karnataka has also seen a significant boost, with over Rs 7,000 crores allocated for railway development.
The operational benefits of the new trains are notable, with the Meerut-Lucknow Vande Bharat reducing travel time by about one hour compared to the fastest existing service. The Chennai Egmore-Nagercoil train will cut travel time by over two hours, and the Madurai-Bengaluru service will save approximately one hour and 30 minutes.
These new Vande Bharat trains are set to enhance the travel experience across Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, providing a modern and efficient transportation option. PM Modi’s initiative reflects the ongoing effort to upgrade India’s railway system and support regional growth, aligning with the broader goal of transforming India into a more developed and prosperous nation.
