Ayodhya Witnesses Historic Inauguration of First-Ever Amrit Bharat Express Trains: 5 Key Features of the 'Jerk-Free' Journey
In a groundbreaking event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the inaugural run of the first two Amrit Bharat Express trains from Ayodhya on December 30. Pioneering a “jerk-free” travel experience, these trains boast cutting-edge technology designed to eliminate any discomfort for passengers during the journey.
Here are five essential aspects to know about the inauguration of the Amrit Bharat Express trains:
Routes and Connectivity: The ‘jerk-free’ trains are scheduled to operate between Darbhanga in Bihar and Anand Vihar in Delhi via Ayodhya. Additionally, the services will extend to connect Malda Town in West Bengal with Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminus in Bengaluru, as reported by PTI.
Semi-Permanent Coupler Technology: Employing innovative semi-permanent coupler technology, the Amrit Bharat Express ensures a seamless journey at a maximum speed of 130 km/h. This technology effectively minimizes the jerk effect during the train’s start and stop, enhancing passenger comfort.
Fares and Ticketing: The minimum ticket price for traveling on Amrit Bharat Express trains ranges from ₹35 for distances within 1 km to 50 km, excluding reservation fees and additional charges. Compared to other mail or express trains, Amrit Bharat’s fare is slightly higher, approximately 15 to 17 percent.
Ticket Admissibility and Special Features: Notably, concessional tickets and tickets against free complimentary passes will not be applicable for these trains. The Amrit Bharat trains, featuring LHB coach-based push-pull arrangement, boast special amenities such as horizontal sliding windows, dust-sealed wider gangways, and an aerosol-based fire suppression system in toilets and electrical cubicles.
Inaugural Departure Details: The Darbhanga-Anand Vihar Amrit Bharat Express, comprising 22 coaches, will depart from Darbhanga every Monday and Thursday at 3:00 PM. The journey is expected to culminate at Anand Vihar Terminal station in Delhi at 12:35 PM the following day, covering a total travel time of 21 hours and 35 minutes.
In addition to the Amrit Bharat Express inauguration, the Prime Minister will also launch six new Vande Bharat Trains, contributing to the expansion of the country’s railway network. The event signifies a significant milestone in enhancing rail connectivity and passenger experience. The cost-effective and efficient travel offered by the Amrit Bharat Express aligns with the government’s commitment to modernizing and improving the country’s railway infrastructure.
Darbhanga-Anand Vihar Amrit Bharat Express Details:
The eye-catching orange and grey appearance of the Amrit Bharat Express, coupled with a WAP5 locomotive at each end, adds a distinctive touch to the train. Consisting of 22 coaches, the train includes eight general second-class coaches for unreserved passengers, twelve second-class 3-tier sleeper coaches, and two guard compartments. While the final ticket prices are yet to be disclosed on the IRCTC website, the train is poised to offer a comfortable and modern travel experience.
Inaugural Schedule and Stops:
The Darbhanga-Anand Vihar Amrit Bharat Express (Train number 15557) is scheduled to depart from Darbhanga every Monday and Thursday at 3:00 PM. Covering various stations, the train’s route includes stops at Kamtul, Janakpur Road, Sitamarhi, Bairgania, Raxaul, Narkatiyaganj, Bagha, Kaptanganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, Mankapur, Ayodhya Dham, Lucknow, Kanpur Central, Etawah, Tundla, Aligarh Junction, and finally, Anand Vihar Terminal.
Modern Amenities at Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station:
The Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station, constructed at a cost exceeding ₹240 crore, stands as a symbol of modern railway infrastructure. Situated within walking distance from the Ram Temple, the three-story building incorporates advanced amenities such as elevators, escalators, food plazas, and childcare rooms. Notably, the station has been certified as a green station building by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), emphasizing its commitment to sustainability.
Expansion of Railway Network:
Beyond the Amrit Bharat Express inauguration, the event marks the commencement of six new Vande Bharat Trains, further expanding the country’s railway network. These Vande Bharat Express trains are set to operate on various routes, including Ayodhya-Anand Vihar Terminal, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-New Delhi, Amritsar-Delhi, Coimbatore-Bangalore Cantt, Mangalore-Madgaon, and Jalna-Mumbai. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision to enhance connectivity, efficiency, and comfort in rail travel across diverse regions of India.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the Amrit Bharat Express and the launch of additional Vande Bharat Trains represent significant strides in modernizing India’s railway infrastructure, promising a more seamless and enjoyable travel experience for passengers nationwide.
