Now, Vande Bharat to connect Bhopal with Patna & Lucknow
Bhopal: Two new Vande Bharat train services are likely to commence operations from Rani Kamlapati railway station (RKMP) to Patna and Lucknow, significantly reducing travel time between these destinations.
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Bhopal railway division officials said that the service will enhance connectivity between the capital cities of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, offering improved interstate travel facilities. The Patna-bound Vande Bharat service will be allocated to Patna railway division. Both Bhopal and Patna railway divisions are to finalise operational arrangements. Schedule and pricing details will be announced after service allocation.
RKMP and Patna are separated by roughly 1005 km. While existing services like Agartala Express and other superfast trains require 18 to 20 hours, the semi-high speed Vande Bharat, travelling at up to 160 kmph, will complete this journey in 12 to 13 hours. Currently, direct rail connections from Bhopal and RKMP to Patna are restricted to Agartala Express and Saharsa Weekly Express. Passengers travelling to Bihar must use multiple connections on other services.
The additional Vande Bharat service will address issues of long waiting times and queues. Passengers will benefit from direct, comfortable, and swift transportation, enhancing their travel experience. The Railway Board's allocation is expected shortly, with services likely to begin within two months. The Bhopal division completed all required operational preparations.
The Vande Bharat Express linking Bhopal and Lucknow will reduce journey duration to 6-8 hours from the present 10-12 hours. The train comprises eight coaches, offering AC chair car and executive class accommodation. The service incorporates the Kavach Protection System for safety and consumes 25% less electricity.
Presently, over 10 trains operate between these cities via indirect routes, taking 10-12 hours. The new Vande Bharat Express will decrease travel time and efficiently handle passenger traffic
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