Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday flagged off two new Amrit Bharat Express trains, strengthening rail connectivity between Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. The newly launched routes include Varanasi to Pune (Hadapsar) and Ayodhya to Mumbai’s Lokmanya Tilak Terminus.
The move is being seen as part of a broader effort to improve long-distance rail infrastructure and provide more direct travel options between northern and western India.
Enhanced connectivity expected to boost pilgrimage and tourism
The introduction of these services is expected to significantly benefit major religious destinations such as Varanasi and Ayodhya, which attract millions of visitors each year.
Improved rail access to metropolitan hubs like Mumbai and Pune is likely to ease travel for pilgrims and tourists. The Varanasi–Pune route will provide better connectivity to the Kashi Vishwanath temple area, while the Ayodhya–Mumbai service is expected to facilitate travel to the Ram Mandir complex.
Designed for affordability and comfort, says Railway Ministry
According to the Railway Ministry, the Amrit Bharat Express trains are designed to cater to the needs of the common passenger, offering a balance between affordability and improved travel comfort.
These trains are expected to benefit a wide segment of passengers, including migrant workers, daily travellers, and pilgrims, by providing direct routes and reducing the need for multiple train changes.
Officials added that fares for these trains are moderately higher—approximately 15 to 17 per cent above regular Mail and Express services—reflecting the upgraded facilities.
Varanasi–Pune route to cover key cities across four states
The Banaras–Hadapsar Amrit Bharat Express will originate from Varanasi and pass through several major stations across Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra before reaching Pune.
Important stops along the route include Prayagraj and Jhansi, followed by Bhopal and Itarsi in Madhya Pradesh, and key Maharashtra stations such as Manmad and Kopargaon, which serve as access points for Shirdi.
The train is scheduled to complete its journey in approximately 30 hours, with a total of 18 halts across its route.
Ayodhya–Mumbai service to improve direct access to financial capital
The Ayodhya–Mumbai Amrit Bharat Express will originate from Ayodhya Cantt and terminate at Lokmanya Tilak Terminus.
The train will pass through major junctions including Prayagraj, Jabalpur, Itarsi, Bhusaval, Nashik Road, Kalyan, and Thane. The total journey time is expected to be around 28 hours, with 12 designated stops.
This route is expected to provide a crucial direct link between Ayodhya and Mumbai, benefiting both religious travellers and those commuting for work.
Regular operations to be announced soon
Railway officials stated that the inaugural runs mark the beginning of operations, and a detailed schedule for regular services will be announced shortly.
The addition of these trains is expected to ease passenger load on existing routes while improving overall connectivity between Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, two states with significant economic, cultural, and migration linkages.
(With inputs from PTI)