Special Vande Bharat Train Launched Between Delhi and Patna for Chhath and Diwali Festivals

The new Vande Bharat Chair Car from Indian Railways has successfully completed a trial run on the Mathura-Nagada section at a speed of 180 km/h. This 16-car train was manufactured at the RCF railway factory in Kapurthala, Punjab.

According to the Ministry of Railways, this test was conducted on October 8, 2026, under the observation of the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS). The operational capability, safety, and performance of the train equipped with an advanced power unit were tested, marking an important stage in the modernization of India's railway production.

It is important to note that the completion of the 180 km/h speed tests does not mean the train will operate at this speed during regular passenger services. Currently, the Vande Bharat will travel at speeds ranging from 130 to 160 km/h, but reaching 180 km/h is planned for the future.

The new Vande Bharat train is equipped with comfortable seats that have a reclining function, providing ample legroom. It is also fitted with large windows that ensure a good view of the external landscape and lighting. Furthermore, it includes toilets with a zero-discharge bio-vacuum system, which prevents waste emission.

The train composition includes automatic sliding doors and a smooth suspension system that minimizes the sensation of jolts and vibrations. The air-conditioned coaches are designed to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the journey, adjusting it based on the number of passengers.

Special toilets designed for wheelchair users are provided for passengers with disabilities. Special attention is paid to cleanliness, and staff are present in every coach to provide any necessary assistance.

Currently, the journey from Bangalore to Mumbai by train takes about 22–24 hours. However, it is expected that the launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train between these two cities will reduce travel time by 6–8 hours. This train is anticipated to begin operations this month.

According to the proposed schedule, the trip from Bangalore to Mumbai will take 16 hours and 5 minutes. The return journey from Mumbai to Bangalore is estimated to last about 15 hours and 45 minutes. This route will be the first Vande Bharat Sleeper high-speed train in South India.

The proposed railway route is approximately 1137 kilometers long, fully electrified, and equipped with double tracks. Most of this section allows for speeds of up to 130 kilometers per hour, making it an attractive option for high-speed service. The train is designed to meet the needs of passengers undertaking long overnight journeys.

Although the final launch date and schedule are awaiting official announcement from the railways, the proposed timetable includes the train departing from SMVT Bengaluru terminal at 19:50 and arriving at CSMT Mumbai terminal the next day at 11:55. For the return trip, the train is planned to depart from CSMT Mumbai at 20:10, arriving in Bangalore at 11:55 the following day.

According to sources, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train route between Bangalore and Mumbai may have stops at certain stations. Potential train numbers 27651 and 27652 are mentioned, but final confirmation of stops and numbers is still pending. These details will be determined after an official statement from the railways.

Under the initial plan, the train was supposed to start from the SMVT station in Bangalore. However, there is a requirement to launch the train from the main railway station of the city, KSR Bengaluru, as it is more convenient for passengers. The initial announcement for the train launch was made in September 2025, and now the decision from the railways regarding the starting station must be awaited.

Two sets of 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper trains have been prepared for this service. Their construction was carried out by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) under the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) program. According to sources, one set is located at the Bangalore depot, and the second is in Vardapur, near Bangarapet. The Railway Commission may soon issue an official notification regarding the transfer of these sets to the South Western Railway.

The total composition of the proposed Vande Bharat Sleeper train will consist of 16 coaches, including 11 3AC class coaches, 4 2AC class coaches, and 1 1AC class coach. The approximate ticket price in 3AC class is around 3000 Indian rupees. It is expected that breakfast and meals will be included in this price, as Vande Bharat trains provide meal selection on long journeys. The railway anticipates that the lower price and shorter travel time compared to air travel will make this service popular among passengers.

The operation of the new Vande Bharat train has commenced on the route from Surat (Gujarat state) to Udaipur (Rajasthan state). This launch is good news for passengers traveling on this route. The train was inaugurated on October 2 in observance of Ganesh Chaturthi.

The operation of this semi-high-speed train will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities. Ticket sales began on October 1, both online and offline. The new Vande Bharat express service running between Surat and Udaipur will provide passengers with a comfortable, modern, and fast travel experience, allowing them to cover the distance in just 7 hours and 30 minutes. This service will be beneficial not only to traders traveling for business but also to tourists, students, and regular passengers, saving them time.

Special attention has been paid to safety and passenger convenience in the new Vande Bharat express train. It includes numerous advanced systems such as automatic sliding doors, 360-degree rotating seats, GPS-based passenger information system, Wi-Fi, CCTV cameras, and the Kavach anti-collision system.

According to Western Railway, train number 26903 will depart from Surat every Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday at 06:10 AM and arrive in Udaipur the same day at 13:40. The operation of this service is scheduled for October 4, 2026. Similarly, train number 26904 Vande Bharat Express will depart from Udaipur at 15:35 on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday, arriving in Surat the same day at 23:00. The commencement of this train's service is set for October 3.

On the Surat-Udaipur railway route, the Vande Bharat Express train will stop at all planned stations. These include Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Maninagar, Asrava, Himmatnagar, Shamlaji Road, Dungarpur, and Jawar. The launch of the Vande Bharat express between Surat and Udaipur opens a new chapter in the trade, cultural, and tourist connections between Gujarat and Rajasthan.

During the journey on the Vande Bharat Express, there was particular enthusiasm among female students. They highly appreciated the modern amenities, attractive design, and comfort of the journey, calling their experience unforgettable. Female passengers who traveled on the Vande Bharat Express operated by Western Railway appeared very satisfied, impressed by the modern facilities and comfortable journey.