Introduction of New Vande Bharat Express Trains
The Indian Railways has announced the operation of three new upgraded Vande Bharat Express trains from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity between Bhopal and the capitals of significant Indian states. The new trains will facilitate direct travel to Lucknow and Patna, with one train featuring sitting coaches and two designed with sleeper coaches. Additionally, the maintenance of these trains will be conducted at the Rani Kamlapati Railway Station (RKMP) in Bhopal, ensuring efficient service and upkeep for the new fleet.
Train Specifications and Capacity
The Vande Bharat Express connecting Bhopal to Lucknow will operate as a sitting coach train with a configuration of eight coaches, while the Bhopal-Patna route will feature sleeper coaches with a total of 16 coaches. The sleeper variant will include 11 AC 3-tier coaches, 4 AC 2-tier coaches, and 1 AC First coach, accommodating a total of 823 passengers. Specifically, this train will allow 611 passengers in the AC 3-tier section, 188 in AC 2-tier, and 24 in the AC First class. This arrangement demonstrates the Railways’ commitment to providing diverse travel options for passengers.
Operational Readiness and Maintenance
Bhopal railway officials have confirmed that the Bhopal-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express will be managed under the Bhopal Railway Division, with the first rake expected to arrive by mid-November. Preparations for the operation of the Bhopal-Patna sleeper train are already in motion. The RKMP station is undergoing upgrades to facilitate the maintenance and management of the new Vande Bharat trains, ensuring that any issues can be promptly addressed. Senior DCM Saurabh Kataria has stated that both the placement and maintenance of the upgraded Vande Bharat 4.0 trains will be handled at this station, highlighting the infrastructure improvements being made in Bhopal.
Important Information Organised For You.
| Train Type | Route | Coaches | Passenger Capacity | Maintenance | Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vande Bharat (Sitting Coach) | Bhopal – Lucknow | 8 coaches | N/A | RKMP Railway Station, Bhopal | Mid-November |
| Vande Bharat (Sleeper Coach) | Bhopal – Patna | 16 coaches | AC 3 Tier: 611 AC 2 Tier: 188 AC First: 24 |
RKMP Railway Station, Bhopal | December |
| Vande Bharat (Sleeper Coach) | Bhopal – (Approved Route) | 16 coaches | N/A | RKMP Railway Station, Bhopal | TBA |