Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express trains from his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, further expanding India’s semi-high-speed rail network aimed at improving regional connectivity and travel comfort.
The new routes include Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru. Speaking at the launch, PM Modi said the new services will “enhance connectivity and provide greater comfort to citizens across regions.”
PM #NarendraModi flags off four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Banaras Railway Station@narendramodi pic.twitter.com/5U2Lo1RDjn
— NewsMobile (@NewsMobileIndia) November 8, 2025
Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat: Linking Spiritual and Cultural Hubs
The Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express will establish a direct connection between two major cultural destinations and cut travel time by about two hours and 40 minutes compared with current services.
According to the government, the train will connect Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Khajuraho — cities steeped in religious and historical significance.
“This link will not only strengthen religious and cultural tourism but also provide pilgrims and travellers with a fast, modern, and comfortable journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho,” the official statement said.
Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat: Boosting Regional Mobility
The Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in about seven hours and 45 minutes, reducing travel time by nearly an hour.
The route will benefit passengers from Lucknow, Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Bijnor, and Saharanpur, while improving access to the holy city of Haridwar via Roorkee.
Officials said the new service will ensure “smoother and faster intercity travel across central and western Uttar Pradesh,” contributing to regional development and connectivity.
Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat: Fastest Train on the Route
The new Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat will become the fastest train operating between the two cities, completing the journey in just six hours and 40 minutes.
The Centre said the service will enhance connectivity between the national capital and key cities in Punjab, including Firozpur, Bathinda, and Patiala.
“This train is expected to boost trade, tourism, and employment opportunities, contributing to the socio-economic development of border regions and fostering greater integration with national markets,” the statement added.
Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat: Powering Southern Growth
The Ernakulam–Bengaluru service will cut travel time by more than two hours, completing the route in eight hours and 40 minutes.
Connecting two major IT and commercial hubs, the train will offer professionals, students, and tourists a faster and more comfortable travel option.
“The route will promote greater economic activity and tourism between Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, supporting regional growth and collaboration,” the government said.
