This weekend heralds a momentous occasion in the Indian railway sector as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the maiden journey of the Amrit Bharat Express trains from Ayodhya. These trains boast an eye-catching orange and gray color scheme, but their allure extends beyond aesthetics. The locomotives powering these trains are aerodynamically constructed, embodying the epitome of modern rail engineering.
A distinctive feature of the Amrit Bharat Express is its push-pull operation facilitated by two WAP5 locomotives. This innovative design not only allows for quicker acceleration but also translates into shorter trip times, promising a more efficient and time-saving travel experience for passengers. As the nation eagerly anticipates the commencement of these new services, excitement is palpable about the transformative impact these trains are poised to bring to the rail travel landscape.
Among the trains ready to embark on this new journey is the 22-coach Darbhanga-Anand Vihar Amrit Bharat Express. Boasting two guard compartments, twelve second-class 3-tier sleeper coaches, and eight ordinary second-class coaches, this train caters to the diverse needs of passengers, whether they prefer reserved or unreserved travel. While the exact ticket cost is yet to be disclosed, the anticipation surrounding this inaugural journey is undeniable.
Scheduled to depart Darbhanga at 3:00 PM on Mondays and Thursdays, the train is slated to reach the Anand Vihar Terminal station in Delhi at 12:35 PM the following day, traversing a route that includes stops at prominent stations such as Kamtul, Janakpur Road, Sitamarhi, Gorakhpur, Ayodhya Dham, Lucknow, and Kanpur Central. Each station presents a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the diverse cultural tapestry that defines India.
Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station, a pivotal stop on this journey, stands as a modern marvel. A three-story structure adorned with cutting-edge amenities, including food plazas, escalators, elevators, and childcare rooms, it exemplifies the commitment to providing a comfortable and accessible travel experience. Certified by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) as a green station building, Ayodhya Dham Junction is a testament to sustainable infrastructure development.
In a grand inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Modi is not only launching the Darbhanga-Anand Vihar Amrit Bharat Express but also unveiling the Malda Town-Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminus (Bengaluru) Amrit Bharat Express. Additionally, six new Vande Bharat Trains are set to make their debut, further expanding the nation’s railway network. These trains are poised to cover routes such as Jalna-Mumbai, Coimbatore-Bangalore Cantt, Mangalore-Madgaon, Amritsar-Delhi, Ayodhya-Anand Vihar Terminal, and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-New Delhi.
Notably, the Northern Railway has invested ₹241 crore in the construction of Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station and additional facilities, providing a seamless connection to the nearby Ram Temple. The station’s green certification aligns with the broader sustainability goals of the nation’s infrastructure development.
The Amrit Bharat Express itself is a marvel of engineering, boasting features that elevate the travel experience. With a push-pull technology incorporating WAP5 engines at each end, the train ensures enhanced acceleration and deceleration, reducing overall travel time. Its 22 coaches include well-designed second-class 3-tier sleeper coaches, guard cabins, and ordinary second-class cars. Travelers can indulge in improved amenities, including cushioned baggage racks, ergonomically designed seats, LED lighting, CCTV, public information systems, and mobile charging stations.
The Amrit Bharat Express promises not just speed but also comfort and safety. Its maximum permitted speed of 130 km/h ensures a swift journey, while features such as aerosol-based fire suppression systems, zero-discharge FRP modular toilets, and radium lighting flooring strips enhance convenience and safety.
As Prime Minister Modi inaugurates these trains, India witnesses another milestone in its journey towards a modern and efficient railway network, ensuring that the spirit of Amrit Bharat Express resonates across the nation’s diverse landscapes.
