PM Modi Flags Off 3 Vande Bharat Trains, Marking India’s Push Towards Modern Rail Infrastructure

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 31st August. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flagged off three new Vande Bharat Express trains via video conferencing, taking another significant step towards modernizing India’s rail network. The launch of these state-of-the-art trains aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Make in India’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, enhancing connectivity on three vital routes: Meerut—Lucknow, Madurai—Bengaluru, and Chennai—Nagercoil. These trains are set to improve transportation links in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

During the virtual flag-off ceremony, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the ongoing transformation of the Indian Railways, emphasizing that the expansion of Vande Bharat trains is a crucial component of the nation’s journey towards becoming a developed country, or “Viksit Bharat.” He noted that the introduction of these trains will significantly enhance connectivity between major cities and historic towns, facilitating not just transportation but also economic growth through tourism and business opportunities.

“The nation is inching towards the goal of Viksit Bharat with the modernization and expansion of Vande Bharat trains in the country,” PM Modi stated. He pointed out that the new routes connecting Madurai with Bengaluru, and Chennai with Nagercoil, would particularly benefit pilgrims, students, farmers, and IT professionals. The Meerut—Lucknow route, meanwhile, would greatly reduce travel time for passengers in western Uttar Pradesh, a region already witnessing a “new revolution of development” through projects like the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS).

The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of rapid development in Southern India, describing it as imperative for achieving the national goal of Viksit Bharat. He stressed that Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, rich in talent, resources, and opportunities, are key to this vision. He cited the increased budget allocations for rail infrastructure in these states—over ₹6,000 crore for Tamil Nadu and more than ₹7,000 crore for Karnataka this year—as evidence of the government’s commitment to their development.

Modi further elaborated on the broader vision for Indian Railways, explaining that the expansion of Vande Bharat trains is part of a larger effort to modernize the nation’s transport infrastructure. This includes the electrification of railway lines, modernization of railway stations, and the introduction of high-tech services. “Vande Bharat is the new face of modernization of Indian Railways,” the Prime Minister remarked, noting that the popularity of these trains, which have already transported over 3 crore passengers across 102 services, reflects the aspirations of the Indian people.

The Prime Minister also mentioned the government’s future plans, including the launch of sleeper versions of Vande Bharat trains and the expansion of Amrit Bharat trains. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to renovate more than 1,300 railway stations across the country under the Amrit Bharat Station Yojana, which aims to give even the smallest stations state-of-the-art facilities.

PM Modi concluded by expressing confidence that the ongoing infrastructure development will play a major role in eradicating poverty in India. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of development reach every citizen, particularly the poor and middle class.

The virtual event was attended by Union Minister for Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, as well as the Governors and Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The new Vande Bharat trains are expected to significantly reduce travel times on their respective routes, providing passengers with a world-class travel experience that combines speed, comfort, and efficiency.