The Seven New Routes Unveiled
The Railway Board has given the green light to a significant expansion of the Amrit Bharat network, connecting major cities and towns across northern, central, western, and southern India. These weekly services will create new travel corridors and enhance
connectivity on high-demand routes. The approved services are: Dhanbad to Coimbatore; Charlapalli (near Hyderabad) to Gorakhpur; Gorakhpur to Bandra (Mumbai); Gorakhpur to Delhi; Prayagraj to Udhna (Surat); Prayagraj to Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (Mumbai); and Subedarganj (near Prayagraj) to Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (Mumbai). These routes will link states like Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
What Exactly is an Amrit Bharat Express?
The Amrit Bharat Express is a new class of train designed specifically for long-distance travel, targeting passengers who seek affordable journeys without compromising on modern amenities. Unlike the fully air-conditioned Vande Bharat Express, the Amrit Bharat trains are non-AC and feature a mix of sleeper and unreserved general seating coaches, making them accessible to a wider population. The primary goal is to cater to the mass mobility segment, including migrant workers and families, by providing a superior alternative to older, often overcrowded, passenger trains on routes longer than 800 kilometres.
A Smoother and Safer Journey
One of the standout features of the Amrit Bharat Express is its use of 'push-pull' technology. Each train has a locomotive at both the front and the rear, which allows for quicker acceleration and deceleration, reducing travel time. This configuration, along with semi-permanent couplers, ensures a smoother, jerk-free ride for passengers. Inside, the coaches are equipped with cushioned seats and berths, CCTV cameras for security, modern bio-vacuum toilets with sensor-based taps, and mobile charging points for every passenger. A 'fully sealed gangway' allows passengers to move between coaches safely and without exposure to the elements.
Designed for Passenger Convenience
The design of the Amrit Bharat coaches incorporates several thoughtful details aimed at improving the passenger experience. These include foldable snack tables and bottle holders, which provide convenience without taking up permanent space. For better visibility and safety at night, the flooring is lined with radium illumination strips. The toilets feature an automatic hygiene and odour control system, a significant upgrade for long-haul train travel. An onboard passenger information system keeps travellers updated on the journey's progress. These trains are part of the 'Make in India' initiative and are manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai.
Strengthening India's Rail Network
The introduction of these seven new services is a strategic move by Indian Railways to address the massive demand on popular long-distance routes. By offering an affordable yet modern travel option, the Amrit Bharat trains aim to decongest existing services and provide a dignified travel experience for millions. This expansion is a key part of the national transporter's broader vision to modernise its fleet and cater to the needs of every passenger segment. While the official launch dates for these new services are yet to be announced, their approval marks a significant step forward in enhancing rail connectivity across the country.
