Which Trains Are Affected?
The schedule revision by Northern Railway impacts two key semi-high-speed services originating from Varanasi. The first is the Varanasi-Ranchi Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 20888), a popular service connecting Uttar Pradesh to Jharkhand's capital. The second
is the Varanasi-Deoghar Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22500), which serves a significant number of pilgrims and tourists heading to the temple town of Deoghar. Both trains will now depart from Varanasi Junction 10 minutes earlier than their previous schedule. This change is part of a broader timetable adjustment by the railways to improve operational efficiency.
The New Timetable: Ranchi Route
For passengers travelling on the Varanasi-Ranchi Vande Bharat Express (20888), the change is crucial. Previously, the train departed from Varanasi at 4:05 PM. Starting September 2, the new, earlier departure time is 3:55 PM. While this may seem like a minor adjustment, passengers accustomed to the old timing will need to plan their arrival at the station accordingly to avoid any last-minute rush or risk missing the train. This service, which was inaugurated in March 2024, operates six days a week (excluding Tuesdays) and covers the 536-kilometre distance in approximately 7 hours and 50 minutes.
The New Timetable: Deoghar Route
Similarly, the Varanasi-Deoghar Vande Bharat Express (22500) will also see its schedule moved forward. The train, which used to depart at 6:20 AM, will now leave Varanasi Junction at 6:10 AM, a full 10 minutes earlier. This early morning service is vital for travellers, especially pilgrims visiting the revered Baba Baidyanath Jyotirlinga temple in Deoghar. The earlier start is intended to streamline its run and maintain punctuality along the route. For those with connecting travel or early morning commitments, this 10-minute shift is an important detail to remember when planning their journey.
Why the Change and What About Other Stations?
According to Northern Railway, these revisions are being implemented for operational reasons, likely to enhance punctuality and better integrate these services within the network's busy schedule. An important point for travellers to note is that this timing change is only applicable to the departure from Varanasi. The scheduled timings for both trains at all subsequent stations along their routes—including major stops like Gaya, Koderma, and Bokaro Steel City for the Ranchi service—will remain unchanged. Therefore, the adjustment specifically affects passengers boarding at the originating station.
What Travellers Need to Do
The message from Indian Railways is clear: passengers booked on these two Vande Bharat services from September 2 onwards should double-check their travel plans. A 10-minute difference can be the margin between catching a train and missing it, especially for those who travel from farther away to reach the station. It is highly advisable to verify the departure time mentioned on your ticket and consult the latest railway timetables. Arriving at Varanasi station based on the old schedule could lead to significant inconvenience. By being aware of this minor but critical adjustment, travellers can ensure their journey begins smoothly and without any unforeseen complications.
