Indian Railways has introduced its first 20-coach Vande Bharat Express on the Howrah–Puri route. This launch marks a major milestone in Odisha’s rail infrastructure. The semi-high-speed train is now the longest in Odisha. It is designed to improve passenger capacity and comfort significantly. The upgraded service promises to reduce travel time and enhance the journey experience for thousands of commuters and tourists. The train connects West Bengal and Odisha efficiently.
Odisha’s Longest Semi-High-Speed Train Boosts Connectivity
Cinematic here …!
Cinematic version of Howrah – Puri Vande bharat express
Bengal’s 2nd vande Bharat@RailMinIndia @AshwiniVaishnaw @EasternRailway @drmhowrah @drmkharagpur (1/2) pic.twitter.com/Prsm6iiJhp
— Rail Fanatics of India (@RailFanatic) March 31, 2025
The newly launched 20-coach Vande Bharat Express replaces the previous 16-coach model, extending its length to accommodate more passengers. Manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, this train exemplifies the ‘Make in India’ initiative by combining speed, efficiency, and modern design. According to reports, the increase in coaches will allow the train to carry approximately 85,000 passengers annually, offering a considerable improvement over its predecessor.
Running on a semi-high-speed corridor, the train covers the 502-kilometre stretch between Howrah and Puri in around 6 hours and 40 minutes. The journey includes stops at major stations such as Kharagpur, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur Road, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Khurda Road Junction. This connectivity is crucial for both daily commuters and pilgrims, especially those visiting the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri.
Enhanced Travel Experience With Modern Amenities
The new Vande Bharat Express offers two seating classes: AC Chair Car and Executive AC. Ticket prices are set at ₹1,245 for the AC Chair Car and ₹2,400 for the Executive AC. According to Indian Railways, the train is equipped with numerous passenger-friendly features, including rotatable seats in the Executive Class, large panoramic windows for scenic views, on-board Wi-Fi, infotainment systems, and ample legroom with overhead luggage racks. Additionally, catering services ensure passengers can enjoy meals throughout their journey.
Also Read: Tatanagar To Puri In 8 Hours: New Vande Bharat Express Promises Speed And Comfort
The train’s design prioritises speed and passenger comfort, aiming to provide a hassle-free travel experience. The introduction of the 20-coach Vande Bharat on this route is a clear indication of Indian Railways’ focus on modernising its fleet and improving connectivity between key cities.
Strategic Importance Of Odisha’s Transport Network
As reported by local sources, the launch of this longer Vande Bharat Express comes as part of a broader strategy to boost regional transport infrastructure. This upgrade not only caters to the rising passenger demand but also promotes tourism and economic activity across Odisha and neighbouring states. The faster travel time and enhanced capacity are expected to ease congestion on this busy corridor, benefiting both business and leisure travellers.
Overall, the arrival of the 20-coach Vande Bharat Express marks a significant step forward in rail travel within Odisha. It underscores Indian Railways’ commitment to providing world-class, efficient, and comfortable services to the public. Passengers travelling the Howrah–Puri route can now enjoy faster journeys with improved facilities, reflecting the ongoing transformation of India’s railway network
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