Indian Railways (IR) is set to launch four new Vande Bharat Express trains, taking the total number of such services across India to 164. These new semi-high-speed trains aim to improve passenger convenience, connectivity, and comfort on key inter-state routes, strengthening the growing network of modern train services.
New Routes Announced
According to a senior railway official quoted by IndianExpress.com, the four newly notified Vande Bharat Express services will operate on the following routes:
- KSR Bengaluru–Ernakulam
- Firozpur Cantt–Delhi
- Varanasi–Khajuraho
- Lucknow–Saharanpur
These routes will connect major regional and economic hubs, reducing travel time and offering passengers a faster and more comfortable alternative to conventional trains. The new additions also align with Indian Railways’ plan to expand Vande Bharat services across key corridors in southern, northern, and central India.
Occupancy and Popularity Soar
As per Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Vande Bharat Express trains continue to witness exceptionally high passenger occupancy, exceeding 100% on most routes.
In FY 2024–25, the trains recorded an average occupancy of 102.01%, which rose to 105.03% in the ongoing fiscal year (till June 2025). These figures reflect the growing preference among passengers for high-speed, comfortable, and reliable train travel.
Advanced Features for Passenger Comfort and Safety
The newly launched trains come equipped with advanced features designed to deliver a world-class rail experience. Key highlights include:
- KAVACH automatic train protection system
- Design and operating speeds of 180 kmph / 160 kmph
- UV-C lamp-based air disinfection systems
- Semi-permanent couplers for jerk-free rides
- Automatic plug doors and fully sealed gangways
- CCTV cameras, emergency alarms, and talk-back units in every coach
- Aerosol-based fire detection systems
- Divyangjan-friendly lavatories in driving coaches
- Driver-Guard voice recording and crash-hardened memory
- Remote coach monitoring system (CCMS)
These features combine innovation, safety, and comfort, setting a new benchmark for passenger rail travel in India.
Summary
Indian Railways is adding four new Vande Bharat Express trains on the KSR Bengaluru–Ernakulam, Firozpur Cantt–Delhi, Varanasi–Khajuraho, and Lucknow–Saharanpur routes, increasing total services to 164. With 105% occupancy in FY26, the trains continue to gain popularity for their high-speed performance, safety, and modern passenger-friendly features.
