Ashwini Vaishnaw Launches 10 New MEMU Services in Varanasi
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launches 10 new MEMU services in Varanasi and the New Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper train.
In a major boost to regional connectivity, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw officially inaugurated 10 new Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) services in Varanasi on October 31, 2026. The launch ceremony, attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, aims to significantly improve transit for students, small traders, long-distance travelers, and devotees.
Boosting Regional Connectivity and Reducing Traffic
The introduction of these MEMU services is designed to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly for commuters in southern Varanasi and the surrounding rural areas. The new operational plan includes four pairs of trains, providing eight daily services between Varanasi City and Rajatalab. Additionally, the existing Banaras-Prayagraj Rambagh MEMU service has been extended to reach Prayagraj Junction, offering more seamless travel for passengers.
Modern Features and Enhanced Passenger Safety
The newly introduced MEMU network features modern rolling stock with a total capacity for 2,214 passengers. To ensure a comfortable and secure journey, each rake is equipped with several advanced amenities, including:
- CCTV surveillance and panic buttons for enhanced security.
- Bio-toilets and mobile charging points for passenger convenience.
- Aerosol-based fire safety systems.
- Roof-mounted air conditioning in the driver cabs.
Vande Bharat Sleeper and Future Bullet Train Plans
The event marked another significant milestone with the flagging off of the New Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper train, which is the second such service in the nation. Looking toward future infrastructure, Minister Vaishnaw also discussed the proposed Delhi-Varanasi bullet train corridor. Once operational, this high-speed link is projected to reduce travel time between the two cities to just 3 hours and 33 minutes.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the high-profile inauguration at Banaras Station (Manduadih), local officials, including District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar and Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal, coordinated extensive security and traffic arrangements.