In a boost to connectivity and passenger comfort, Indian Railways (IR) will soon introduce six additional Vande Bharat Express services, comprising three new train pairs — across its network. These semi-high-speed trains are aimed at enhancing travel experience and improving regional links. At present, 144 Vande Bharat Express services are operational nationwide.
A senior railway official confirmed to media that the new services are likely to be flagged off on August 10.
Vande Bharat trains are currently available in 8, 16, and 20-coach configurations, offering Chair Car (CC) and Executive Chair Car (EC) seating.
Bengaluru – Belagavi
Belagavi – Bengaluru
Ajni – Pune
Pune – Ajni
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra – Amritsar
Amritsar – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told the Lok Sabha that Vande Bharat trains continue to witness exceptionally high occupancy. In FY 2024-25, they recorded an overall occupancy of 102.01%, which has further climbed to 105.03% in the current fiscal year (till June 2025).
Equipped with KAVACH train collision avoidance system
High acceleration with a design speed of 180 kmph and operational speed of 160 kmph
UV-C lamp–based disinfection in air conditioning units
Semi-permanent couplers for jerk-free rides
Automatic plug doors and fully sealed wider gangways
CCTVs in all coaches, emergency push buttons, and talk-back units
Enhanced fire safety with aerosol-based detection and suppression systems
Special lavatories for Divyangjan passengers in driving coaches
Crash-hardened memory and driver-guard voice communication system
Remote coach condition monitoring system