Ernakulam, New Delhi, Khajuraho and Saharanpur witness huge jump in connectivity with Vande Bharat Express lines set to redefine high-speed rail travel across India

Posted on November 3, 2025

The cities of Ernakulam, New Delhi, Khajuraho and Saharanpur are set to witness a major boost in connectivity with the launch of the new Vande Bharat Express lines, marking a transformative step in India’s rail infrastructure. These high-speed trains are designed to enhance travel comfort, reduce journey times and provide passengers with a more comfortable and efficient means of transportation. By connecting major cities across multiple states, these routes will not only enhance regional connectivity but will also drive economic growth, tourism and business opportunities, positioning India’s rail network as a leader in modern and fast travel.

Indian Railways expands Vande Bharat Express network with four new routes

Indian Railways (IR) is set to strengthen its Vande Bharat Express fleet with the addition of four new routes, taking the total number of Vande Bharat services to 164. This expansion is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to modernize the country’s railway network and provide faster and more efficient travel options to passengers across multiple states. The new services will enhance connectivity between key regions, including Karnataka, Kerala, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Delhi.

New Vande Bharat Expressways

The newly announced Vande Bharat routes are designed to improve travel efficiency, reduce travel times and provide greater convenience. The new methods are as follows:

1. Bengaluru (KSR) – Ernakulam: This service will improve connectivity between Karnataka and Kerala, providing a direct and fast route for travelers between these two states.
2. Ferozepur Cantonment – New Delhi: Strengthening the connectivity between Punjab and Delhi, this new service is expected to meet the growing demand for faster travel between the national capital and the northern region.
3. Varanasi – Khajuraho: This road enhances connectivity between the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, facilitating access to two prominent cultural and historical destinations in India.
4. Lucknow – Saharanpur: Improving travel within the northwestern region of Uttar Pradesh, this route is expected to enhance local travel and provide more options for passengers traveling within the state.

The Ministry of Railways also announced that Bengaluru – Kochi Vande Bharat Express It will start soon, increasing the reach of these high-speed services across the southern region.

Timings and fare information

the Bengaluru (KSR) – Ernakulam The Vande Bharat Express (train 26651) is scheduled to depart from Bengaluru at 5:10 AMReach Ernakulam at 1:50 pm. The return service (Train 26652) will leave Ernakulam at 06:00 2:20 pm And back to Bengaluru in 11:00 pm. Major stops on this route include: Thrissur, Palakkad, Coimbatore, Tirupur, Salem, Erode, and Krishnarajapuram.

on Ferozepur Cantonment – New Delhi Route (Train 26462), the train will depart from Ferozepur at 7:55 AM It reaches Delhi in 2:35 pm. The return train (Train No. 26461) will leave Delhi at 10:00 4:00 pmreaches Ferozepur at 10:35 pm. While the specific fare details of these trains have not been fully disclosed, typical Vande Bharat fares range between 900 to 3,355 Indian rupeesdepending on the season and route.

Features of Vande Bharat Express

Vande Bharat Express trains have received much attention for their modern features, high performance and comfort. These trains are designed to provide a luxurious and efficient travel experience. Some of the key features of Vande Bharat Express include:

• Automated doors: For smoother and more efficient ascents and descents.
• Sealed passages: These provide smoother transitions between carriages, enhancing passenger comfort.
• Enhanced safety systems: Equipped with modern safety features for a safe travel experience.
• High-speed performance: With design speed up to 180 km/h The operating speed is approx 160 km/hVande Bharat Express trains offer faster travel times compared to conventional trains.

The popularity of Vande Bharat trains is increasing

Vande Bharat Express has seen tremendous success, with Occupancy rate exceeding 100% On all its current lines. Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnao This was confirmed during the fiscal year 2024-2025The total occupancy rate of these trains will be: 102.01%For the current fiscal year (FY26), it has reached a higher level 105.03%. The amazing demand for these services reflects the growing preference for faster, more reliable and comfortable train journeys among Indian commuters.

Benefits of new services

The newly announced Vande Bharat routes will help meet the need for faster and more efficient train services in traditionally underserved areas. By connecting major cities and state capitals, these services will significantly reduce travel times, making train journeys more convenient and attractive for a wide range of passengers. Vande Bharat Express trains are expected to enhance the travel experience for both long-distance passengers and tourists.

In addition to improvements in travel time and convenience, Vande Bharat Express is expected to contribute positively to the local economies of the regions it serves, enhancing tourism and business activities in these regions.

The new Vande Bharat Express routes connecting Ernakulam, New Delhi, Khajuraho and Saharanpur will provide faster travel, improve regional connectivity and drive economic growth across India.

The expansion of the Vande Bharat Express network represents an important step forward in the modernization of railways in India. With faster, more efficient and comfortable travel options, these trains are set to revolutionize train travel across the country. The new routes will provide enhanced connectivity, reduce travel times, and meet the growing demand for high-speed train services in India. As these trains continue to operate at full capacity, they will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Indian rail travel, benefitting passengers and contributing to the country’s economic growth.