Prime Minister Modi inaugurates new Vande Bharat Express

Bihar embarks on a modern rail journey with enhanced connectivity and state-of-the-art travel amenities

Patna: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the gleaming new Vande Bharat Express connecting Pataliputra in Bihar to Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh via Muzaffarpur and Bettiah. This launch, celebrated with a wave of excitement among young passengers experiencing premium train travel for the first time, marks a technological leap for the region and emphasizes a broader commitment to modernizing Indian Railways.

The high-speed train is being hailed not just for its speed and style but also for its state-of-the-art amenities, fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic doors, sensor systems, and even self-cleaning toilets. One passenger likened the experience to a “flight on rails,” underscoring the significant upgrade compared to general trains.

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IANS spoke to several students on board who expressed immense gratitude and admiration for the initiative. One student said, “This is my first train journey ever, and I couldn’t have imagined a better start.” Another shared, “I am really happy and thankful to Prime Minister Modi. He has already done so much for the country, and now he has gifted us this wonderful experience.” A further student commented, “I’m travelling on Vande Bharat for the first time. Compared to general trains, this one is incredibly clean and modern. The facilities are excellent.” Yet another young traveller added, “This train feels so good. The seating, air conditioning, and overall ambience are impressive. I’m really proud that it started from here. Thank you, PM Modi.”

A woman passenger also noted, “Throughout the journey, we received clear information updates. The train offers several modern amenities. Toilets are cleaned automatically, cleanliness is well-maintained, and the seats are very comfortable.” These firsthand testimonials highlight the overwhelming positive reception by the youth and other travellers.

Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of Information and Publicity at the Railway Board, observed the rising appeal of the service, stating, “Vande Bharat is becoming extremely popular, especially among the youth. Its speed, style, and service set a new benchmark in Indian Railways.”

During his visit to Siwan on Friday, Prime Minister Modi further reiterated the double-engine government’s commitment to Bihar’s holistic development. In addition to flagging off this premium train service, he inaugurated and laid foundation stones for projects worth over Rs 5,700 crore. Among these was the new Vaishali-Deoria railway line project, valued at over Rs 400 crore, along with the flagging off of another new train service on the route to bolster regional rail infrastructure.