Introducing the Amrit Bharat Express
Indian Railways has announced the regularisation of a special train service, which will now run as the Amrit Bharat Express between Gorakhpur and Delhi. This move converts the existing 05057/05058 special train into a permanent weekly service, providing
a more predictable and reliable option for commuters on this high-density route. The Amrit Bharat trains are designed to be an affordable travel choice, featuring non-AC sleeper and general class coaches, catering to the needs of a large number of passengers, especially those from lower and lower-middle-income groups.
Schedule and Timings
The new service will operate under new train numbers. Train No. 15095 will depart from Gorakhpur Junction every Thursday at 10:45 PM, reaching Delhi Junction at 12:50 PM the next day. For the return journey, Train No. 15096 will leave Delhi Junction every Friday at 2:10 PM and is scheduled to arrive at Gorakhpur Junction at 6:30 AM the following morning. The regular service for the Gorakhpur to Delhi route is set to begin on August 27, 2026, with the Delhi to Gorakhpur service starting on August 28, 2026.
Route and Key Stoppages
The train will connect several important towns between the two major cities, making eight intermediate stops. The key halts during its journey include Khalilabad, Basti, Gonda Junction, Burhwal Junction, Sitapur Junction, Bareilly Junction, Moradabad Junction, and Ghaziabad. This route ensures that passengers from various parts of Uttar Pradesh have direct connectivity to the national capital. The total journey is expected to take approximately 14 hours, covering a distance of around 780 kilometres.
Why This New Train Matters
The Delhi-Gorakhpur corridor is one of the busiest railway routes in the country, experiencing an immense surge in passenger traffic during major festivals like Diwali and Chhath Puja. Tickets on regular trains are often fully booked months in advance, leaving a vast number of people on long waiting lists. While special festive trains are announced every year, they often operate on a temporary basis. The regularisation of the Amrit Bharat Express provides a permanent, year-round addition to the available services. This offers passengers a consistent weekly option they can plan their travel around, which should help alleviate some of the pressure on other trains like the Gorakhdham Express, Vaishali Express, and various Humsafar services that ply this route.
Booking and Travel Tips
Tickets for the new Amrit Bharat Express can be booked through the official IRCTC website, the mobile app, and at railway station counters. Given the high demand on this route, especially with the festive season approaching, it is advisable to book tickets as soon as the reservation window opens. Passengers should also keep an eye out for other special trains that Indian Railways typically announces closer to the festival dates to manage the extra rush. Checking for ticket availability and PNR status regularly is recommended for those who end up on the waitlist.
