Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to mark a significant milestone in Indian rail connectivity by virtually flagging off the new Sant Ravidas Express on July 17, 2026. This highly anticipated service will establish a direct link between the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and Chheharta near Amritsar in Punjab. As India’s second Vande Bharat Sleeper initiative, this train is designed to bolster religious tourism, regional trade, and seamless travel for thousands of passengers. The launch ceremony will be held in Jalandhar, where the Prime Minister will simultaneously inaugurate a new railway station.
Key highlights of the new service include:
- Train Numbers: 14624 (Chheharta to Varanasi) and 14623 (Varanasi to Chheharta).
- Frequency: Three days a week in both directions.
- Route: Connects major hubs including Lucknow, Moradabad, and Ludhiana.
- Maintenance: Primary maintenance will be handled at Chheharta station.
Detailed Schedule and Operational Route
The Railway Board has finalized the operational timetable to ensure convenience for travelers. Train No. 14624 will depart from Chheharta at 2:05 PM every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. On the return leg, Train No. 14623 will depart from Varanasi every Thursday, Saturday, and Monday at 7:05 PM, reaching its destination at Chheharta by 5:10 AM the following morning.
To ensure wide accessibility, the train has been scheduled with strategic stops at key stations. Passengers can board or deboard at Jaunpur City, Sultanpur, Lucknow, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Saharanpur, Ambala Cantt, Ludhiana, and Jalandhar City. Additionally, the train will observe a brief five-minute halt at Amritsar Railway Station, ensuring efficient transit for commuters heading to the Golden City. This new route is expected to significantly reduce travel time and provide a comfortable, modern experience for those traveling between the two culturally significant regions.