Daijiworld Media Network - Varanasi

Varanasi, Nov 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flagged off four new Vande Bharat Express trains from his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, enhancing the country’s premium rail network.

The new semi-high-speed trains will operate on the Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru routes. With these additions, the total number of operational Vande Bharat trains across India has now crossed 160.

Addressing a public gathering, PM Modi said the new services will “enhance connectivity and provide greater comfort” to citizens. “Vande Bharat is a train made by Indians, for Indians, and of Indians — one that fills every Indian with pride,” he said, adding that the initiative represents the new face of Indian Railways.

He noted that infrastructure development is a key driver of economic growth, saying, “It is not just about big bridges and highways — such systems spark the overall development of the region.”

The Banaras–Khajuraho train will connect major religious and cultural destinations like Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Khajuraho, saving nearly two hours and forty minutes in travel time. The Lucknow–Saharanpur route will improve intercity connectivity across central and western Uttar Pradesh, benefiting passengers traveling to Haridwar via Roorkee.

The Firozpur–Delhi train will be the fastest on the route, boosting trade and tourism across Punjab and Delhi, while the Ernakulam–Bengaluru service will link key IT and commercial hubs across South India, reducing travel time by over two hours.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were present at the event.