Haridwar Connectivity Boost: New AC Trains & Garib Rath Extension
Indian Railways is set to significantly enhance travel options for pilgrims and travelers heading to the holy city of Haridwar. Following a recent Railway Board meeting, the Ministry of Railways has announced a major expansion of rail services, featuring the extension of popular express trains and the introduction of brand-new AC services to improve regional access.
Garib Rath Express Extended to Haridwar
In a major move to improve long-distance connectivity, the Bandra Terminus-Delhi Sarai Rohilla Garib Rath Express (12216/12215) is being extended to Haridwar. This extension not only provides more direct access for passengers from Maharashtra to Uttarakhand but also shifts the primary maintenance of the train to the Haridwar facility.
Travelers can plan their journeys according to the following updated schedule:
- Departing from Haridwar: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
- Departing from Bandra: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
New AC Services to Veraval and Okha
To cater to the growing demand for comfortable travel, the Railway Board has approved two new AC train services. These services will connect Haridwar to Veraval and Okha. Both services will utilize 22 LHB coaches, ensuring high-quality amenities and safety for passengers. Specifically, a bi-weekly AC service between Haridwar and Veraval has been highlighted as a key addition to the network.
Additional Halts and Experimental Stops
Several other adjustments are being made to existing routes to better serve local commuters and long-distance travelers:
- Keshod Halt: The Veraval–Haridwar–Veraval Weekly Special (09203/09204) will include an additional stoppage at Keshod station, effective from October 20-21, 2026.
- Sakauti Tanda Stop: The Delhi-Haridwar Express (14303/14304) has begun an experimental stoppage at Sakauti Tanda, a move confirmed by Northern Railway officials.
Future Infrastructure and Rapid Rail Plans
The expansion is part of a broader strategy to manage passenger flow and reduce congestion. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has previously highlighted plans to develop Rishikesh railway station as a feeder hub, which will help distribute the heavy passenger load currently concentrated at Haridwar.
Furthermore, a transformative proposal is currently under discussion by the NCR Planning Board. The Uttarakhand government is pushing for the extension of the Namo Bharat rapid rail service from Meerut through Muzaffarnagar, eventually reaching Haridwar. If implemented, this high-speed connectivity aims to slash the transit time between Delhi and Haridwar to just two hours.