Bridging Regions Seamlessly
Connectivity between Gujarat and Rajasthan has just received a major upgrade with the introduction of a new Vande Bharat Express service. This cutting-edge
train now operates between Asarwa, located in Gujarat, and Udaipur City in Rajasthan, marking Gujarat's sixth Vande Bharat operation. This expansion is a significant step in developing India's semi-high-speed rail network. The route connecting Ahmedabad's Asarwa station to the popular tourist destination of Udaipur has long been vital for various groups, including merchants transporting goods, students traveling for education, and sightseers exploring the area. The new Vande Bharat service is anticipated to dramatically decrease the duration of travel, while simultaneously providing passengers with a superior and more enjoyable travel experience than previously available on this important corridor.
Boosting Commuter & Tourist Flow
The primary objective behind launching this new Vande Bharat service is to foster stronger transportation links between the northern part of Gujarat and the southern region of Rajasthan. Railway officials have highlighted that this initiative will prove highly beneficial for individuals who commute daily for work, as well as for business travelers undertaking frequent trips. Furthermore, the service is expected to provide a substantial boost to the tourism sector in Udaipur, a city renowned for attracting visitors from all corners of the nation. Indian Railways has been making concerted efforts in recent years to improve regional mobility through strategic upgrades to station infrastructure, the construction of new railway lines, and the deployment of contemporary train sets, with this Asarwa–Udaipur Vande Bharat service being a prime example of this ongoing development plan.
Modern Amenities for Comfort
This new Vande Bharat train comprises an eight-coach configuration, featuring both AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car options to cater to different passenger preferences. Each coach is outfitted with an array of modern amenities designed to enhance passenger comfort and convenience. These include plush reclining seats for a relaxed posture, dedicated mobile charging points to keep devices powered, and state-of-the-art bio-toilets for improved hygiene. Additionally, the train is equipped with automatic sliding doors for easy entry and exit, and extensive CCTV surveillance systems are integrated throughout the train for passenger safety. These features, along with advanced onboard safety systems, are standard elements of the Vande Bharat design, reflecting the railway's commitment to combining swift travel with an overall convenient and secure journey, making rail transport a more compelling alternative to road travel.
Inaugural Run & Schedule
The special inaugural service, designated as Train No. 09663, was scheduled to commence its journey on February 16, 2026. This special run was set to depart from Udaipur City at 12:25 pm, arriving at Asarwa station at 5:15 pm on the same day. Along its route, the train made planned stops at Zawar, Dungarpur, and Himmatnagar stations, facilitating passenger access at these intermediate points. Following this special trip, regular services were slated to begin on February 18. Train No. 26963 would depart from Udaipur City at 6:10 pm, reaching Asarwa at 10:25 pm. For the return journey, Train No. 26964 would leave Asarwa at 5:45 pm, arriving back in Udaipur City at 10:00 pm. The Vande Bharat service is planned to operate six days a week, with Tuesdays designated as the weekly off-day.
Booking and Network Expansion
Passengers looking to travel on the regular Asarwa–Udaipur Vande Bharat service would find booking options readily available starting February 15. Tickets could be purchased through traditional Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters or conveniently online via the official IRCTC website. Comprehensive details regarding train timings, coach configurations, and availability could be accessed through the official railway enquiry portal. This latest addition signifies a further expansion of Gujarat's Vande Bharat network, underscoring the ongoing commitment to developing and implementing faster, more efficient, and modern rail transportation services across the western regions of India, thereby enhancing regional connectivity and passenger experience.
