PM Modi Launches Ahmedabad-Varanasi Express & MEMU Services
PM Modi inaugurates the new Ahmedabad-Varanasi Express and Mehsana-Becharaji MEMU services in Gujarat to boost connectivity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially inaugurated two major rail services in Gujarat, headlined by the new Ahmedabad-Varanasi Express. This launch, part of a massive infrastructure development package valued at over ₹14,000 crore, aims to significantly enhance connectivity for pilgrims, students, and traders across the region.
Ahmedabad-Varanasi Express: Connecting Gujarat to Kashi
The newly launched Ahmedabad (Sabarmati) – Varanasi Express (Train Nos. 12205/12206) is a daily service designed to strengthen the rail link between Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. This service is expected to be a boon for devotees traveling to the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham, as well as for students and business travelers.
Train Schedule and Route Details:
- Train 12205: Departs Sabarmati at 5:20 AM and arrives in Varanasi at 6:30 AM the following day.
- Train 12206: Departs Varanasi at 5:30 PM and arrives at Sabarmati at 8:15 PM the next day.
The train will pass through several key stations, including Mehsana, Palanpur, Abu Road, Falna, Marwar Junction, Beawar, Ajmer, Jaipur, Agra, Govindpuri, Subedarganj, and Mirzapur.
New MEMU Services for Local Commuters and Devotees
In addition to the long-distance express, the Prime Minister also introduced the Mehsana - Becharaji - Sabarmati MEMU service. This service will operate twice daily in both directions, providing essential transport for daily commuters and those visiting the Shri Bahuchar Mata Temple.
MEMU Timings:
- Morning Service: Departs Sabarmati at 6:40 AM, reaches Becharaji at 8:05 AM, and terminates at Mehsana at 9:45 AM.
- Evening Service: Departs Sabarmati at 5:05 PM, reaches Becharaji at 6:48 PM, and terminates at Mehsana at 8:25 PM.
- Return Services: Depart from Mehsana at 7:05 AM and 4:40 PM.
The MEMU route includes stops at Chandkheda, Kalol, Kadi, Bhoyani, Katosan Road, Becharaji, Chanasma, and Ranuj.
A Milestone for Modern Infrastructure
Ahmedabad Divisional Railway Manager Ved Prakash noted that these launches represent a significant step toward a modern, passenger-centric transport system. The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot, State Minister Darshana Vaghela, and various Members of Parliament and MLAs.
Beyond the railway expansions, the Prime Minister's visit included the inauguration of several agricultural and animal husbandry initiatives. Furthermore, he released the 24th installment of the PM-KISAN scheme, totaling ₹19,000 crore, to support the farming community.