Indian Railways to run Namo Bharat Rapid Rail connecting Indore and Ujjain ahead of Simhastha 2028

Ujjain, India (Metro Rail Today): With preparations for Simhastha 2028 gaining momentum, the central government has initiated a major step to enhance connectivity between Indore and Ujjain by introducing a Vande Bharat Metro service on the busy corridor. The proposed service will run on existing railway tracks and is designed to significantly reduce travel time while handling the sharp surge in passenger traffic expected during the mega religious congregation.

Unlike conventional metro systems that require dedicated corridors, the Vande Bharat Metro will operate on the current Indore–Ujjain railway line, eliminating the need for fresh track construction. Railway officials have already conducted test runs at speeds of up to 180 kmph on the route, while the operational speed is expected to be capped at 160 kmph. The service will function as a shuttle, providing frequent and rapid connectivity between the two cities, cutting the travel time to approximately 40 to 45 minutes.

Indore MP Shankar Lalwani said that the decision is being driven by the massive increase in anticipated passenger volumes during Simhastha. More than 300 trains are planned to operate from Indore, Ujjain and nearby stations during the event period. The Vande Bharat Metro, also being referred to as the Namo Bharat train, is expected to play a crucial role in distributing traffic and providing modern, comfortable travel options to pilgrims and daily commuters.

World-class train with high passenger capacity

The upcoming service will comprise a 12-coach world-class trainset equipped with both AC and non-AC coaches. The new coaches are being specially designed to resemble metro-style trains, featuring rapid acceleration, wide doors, and standing space to accommodate large crowds. The total seating capacity is expected to exceed 1,150 passengers, while up to 2,000 passengers will also be able to travel standing, ensuring high capacity during peak events. According to sources, the first Vande Bharat Metro service is expected to debut in Kashi before being introduced on the Indore–Ujjain corridor.

Commenting on the development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group, said, “Introducing a Vande Bharat Metro between Indore and Ujjain is a forward-looking step that blends high-speed rail capabilities with metro-style high capacity. It will not only benefit pilgrims during Simhastha 2028 but will also transform daily regional mobility. Using existing tracks for faster, energy-efficient operations is a smart approach that saves cost, accelerates delivery timelines and maximises public benefit.”

Station upgrades underway ahead of Simhastha

To support the enhanced services, Laxmibai Nagar Railway Station in Indore is being redeveloped at an estimated cost of ₹55 crore. Of this, ₹45 crore is earmarked for station modernisation and ₹10 crore for the construction of a new foot overbridge. The redevelopment works are expected to be completed by January 2026, with full operational readiness targeted soon after. The upgraded station will feature enhanced passenger amenities and improved circulation facilities to handle high event-time crowds.

The introduction of the Vande Bharat Metro reflects Indian Railways’ growing focus on regional high-speed, high-capacity services that bridge the gap between metro and intercity operations. As Indore and Ujjain prepare for Simhastha 2028, the corridor is poised to emerge as one of the most important short-distance high-speed rail links in Madhya Pradesh, offering faster journeys, modern infrastructure and a more comfortable travel experience for millions of passengers.