Ashwini Vaishnaw, Yogi Adityanath to Launch New MEMU in Varanasi
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and CM Yogi Adityanath to inaugurate new MEMU routes in Varanasi and the New Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper.
The new MEMU service Varanasi commuters have been waiting for is finally arriving. On October 31, 2026, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are scheduled to visit the city to inaugurate a new Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train service aimed at significantly boosting local connectivity.
New MEMU Routes and Timings
The new initiative will introduce two major routes to the region. The first connects Rajatalab to Varanasi, while the second will run between Banaras and Prayagraj Rambagh, with an extended reach to Aunrihar. Commencing November 1, the network will operate four pairs of MEMU trains, providing a total of eight daily services between Varanasi City and Rajatalab.
For those planning their morning commute, the inaugural service on the Rajatalab route is set to depart Varanasi City at 5:15 AM, arriving at Rajatalab by 6:15 AM. This service is expected to alleviate road traffic congestion and improve transit options for residents in southern Varanasi and surrounding rural areas.
Modern Amenities and Safety Features
The new MEMU rakes are equipped with advanced passenger amenities to ensure a comfortable and secure journey. Each train has a capacity for 2,214 passengers and includes several modern features:
- CCTV surveillance installed in all coaches and driver cabs.
- Panic buttons for enhanced passenger security.
- Bio-toilets and mobile charging points for convenience.
- Aerosol-based fire safety systems for improved protection.
Additionally, the driver cabs are designed with roof-mounted air conditioning units to enhance operational comfort.
Vande Bharat Sleeper and Station Readiness
The upcoming event will also feature the highly anticipated flagging off of the New Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper train. To ensure a smooth launch for these high-profile services, administrative officials, including District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar and Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal, have already completed thorough inspections at the Banaras railway station.