Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flagged off four new Amrit Bharat Express trains from West Bengal, along with the Howrah–Guwahati Vande Bharat sleeper service, marking a significant expansion of long-distance rail connectivity in eastern India.
The new services are aimed at improving links between North Bengal and key regions in southern and western India, railway officials said, adding that the trains have been designed to offer affordable travel with upgraded passenger facilities.
The four Amrit Bharat Express routes include New Jalpaiguri–Nagercoil, New Jalpaiguri–Tiruchirappalli, Alipurduar–SMVT Bengaluru, and Alipurduar–Panvel. The routes are expected to strengthen inter-state mobility across multiple railway zones.
The Amrit Bharat Express trains operate on push-pull technology, with locomotives positioned at both ends. Railway authorities said this configuration allows faster acceleration and improved operational efficiency, helping reduce overall travel time on long-distance routes.
According to the Railways, the fare structure of the Amrit Bharat Express has been designed to remain economical. For sleeper class travel, the minimum chargeable distance is 200 kilometres, with a base fare of ₹149. For second-class passengers, the minimum distance is set at 50 kilometres, with fares starting at ₹36. Reservation and superfast charges will apply separately.
Railway officials also confirmed that RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) will not be available in sleeper class on these trains. However, unreserved second-class ticketing will continue as per existing norms.
The new trains feature improved seating layouts, foldable snack tables, LED lighting, stainless steel fan guards, and air-spring suspension coaches, which officials said would enhance ride stability. An integrated passenger information system has also been installed to provide real-time journey updates onboard.
The launch comes as Indian Railways continues to roll out next-generation trains as part of its broader infrastructure modernisation programme, with further route expansions expected in the coming months.
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