Vande Metro: PM Modi launched India's first Vande Bharat Rapid Rail on Ahmedabad-Bhuj Route

Ahmedabad, India (Metro Rail Today): India’s rail infrastructure has reached a milestone with the launch of the country’s first Vande Bharat Metro, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gujarat on Monday, September 16, 2024. This new service promises to revolutionize medium-distance travel across the nation with its cutting-edge technology and enhanced efficiency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the Vande Bharat Rapid Rail (also known as Vande Metro), marking a significant development in India’s transportation network. The inaugural service will operate between Bhuj and Ahmedabad, covering a distance of 360 kilometers in just 5 hours and 45 minutes. The service is set to commence its daily operations on September 17, 2024, with a ticket fare of Rs 455 for the entire journey.

Introduction of 'Namo Bharat Rapid Rail'

In a nod to its modern advancements, the Indian Railways has rebranded the Vande Bharat Metro as the 'Namo Bharat Rapid Rail'. This new designation highlights its focus on rapid and efficient travel, distinguishing it from the traditional metro systems found in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

How Vande Bharat Rapid Rail Differs from Traditional Metros

The Vande Bharat Metro diverges significantly from conventional metro systems. Unlike urban metro trains, which typically operate within city limits, the Vande Bharat Metro is designed for inter-city connectivity. It aims to link urban centers with surrounding regions, thereby enhancing accessibility and reducing travel time.

The Railway Ministry has underscored that, while the term 'metro' usually pertains to urban transit systems, the Vande Bharat Metro incorporates advanced technology and features to address a broader spectrum of travel needs. This new model signifies a major leap forward in India’s rail transport infrastructure.

Key Features of the Vande Bharat Metro

The Vande Bharat Metro boasts several state-of-the-art features that set it apart from traditional metro services:

• Comfort and Design: The train offers ergonomically designed seats and fully air-conditioned coaches, providing a superior level of comfort compared to conventional metro trains.
• Speed and Efficiency: Capable of reaching speeds up to 110 km/h, the Vande Bharat Metro ensures swift acceleration and deceleration, significantly reducing travel time.
• Safety Technology: Equipped with KAVACH collision avoidance technology, a comprehensive fire detection system, emergency lights, and aerosol-based fire suppression, the Vande Bharat Metro prioritizes passenger safety.
• Passenger Capacity and Amenities: The train features 12 coaches with a seating capacity of 1,150 passengers. It includes double-leaf automatic sliding doors, a flexible gangway to maintain a dust-free, quiet environment, and Divyangjan-friendly toilets. Additional amenities include meal services, charging sockets, CCTV surveillance, and a talk-back system for emergency communication with the driver.

Route and Schedule

The Ahmedabad-Bhuj Vande Bharat Metro service will make stops at nine stations along its route: Sabarmati, Chandiodiya, Viramgam, Dhrangadhra, Halvad, Samakhiali, Bhachau, Gandhidham, and Anjar. The train will depart from Bhuj at 5:05 am daily, except Sundays, and is scheduled to arrive at Ahmedabad Junction by 10:50 am. The return journey will follow the same schedule, ensuring convenient connectivity between these two key cities.

In summary, the introduction of the Vande Bharat Metro represents a significant enhancement in India's rail network, offering a blend of comfort, speed, and advanced technology to improve medium-distance travel. As it begins operations, the Vande Bharat Metro is set to transform the way people commute between major cities, setting new standards for efficiency and passenger experience in Indian rail transport.