WATCH: PM Modi inaugurates Dehradun-Delhi Vande Bharat Express, electrifies Uttarakhand Railways

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Dehradun-Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal) Vande Bharat Express through video conferencing on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the development of railway infrastructure in Uttarakhand. In addition, the Prime Minister dedicated the electrification of the entire railway routes in the state, making Uttarakhand a 100% electric traction state.

During the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi congratulated the railways for their efforts and expressed his appreciation for the inaugural Vande Bharat Express service. He emphasized that the train will enhance connectivity between the national capital and the scenic Devbhoomi of Uttarakhand, significantly reducing travel time between the two cities. The train's onboard facilities aim to provide passengers with a pleasant travel experience.

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In a significant announcement, the Minister of Railways allocated a budget of Rs. 5000 crore for development works in Uttarakhand, underscoring the state's rapid progress.

An official stated, "The Dehradun-Delhi Vande Bharat Express is set to improve connectivity between Uttarakhand and the national capital, providing a faster and more convenient travel option for passengers. The train is equipped with superior passenger amenities and advanced safety features, including the indigenously developed Train Collision Avoidance System (KAVACH)."

The inaugural run of the Dehradun-Delhi Vande Bharat Express witnessed an enthusiastic response from the locals. As the train passed through Doiwala, Haridwar, Roorkee, Saharanpur, Deoband, Muzaffarnagar, Khatauli, Meerut City, and Modinagar, people showered flower petals, clapped, and waved in celebration. The train received a grand reception upon reaching Delhi's Anand Vihar Terminal, with local representatives present to commemorate the occasion.

Hailed as a "new age train," the Vande Bharat Express embodies the vision of a progressive and self-reliant India. With its superior design, interiors, and speed, the train redefines passenger travel in the country. It boasts features like CCTV surveillance, 360-degree swivel seats, bio-vacuum toilets with touch-free amenities, Divyangjan-friendly washrooms, braille markings, and passenger information and infotainment systems in every coach.

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Details of Dehradun-Delhi Vande Bharat Express

Starting from May 29, 2023, the Dehradun-Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal) Vande Bharat Express will commence regular service. The train will operate six days a week, excluding Wednesdays. Departing from Dehradun at 7:00 a.m., it is scheduled to arrive at Anand Vihar Terminal at 11:45 a.m. on the same day. In the return direction, the train will depart from Anand Vihar Terminal at 5:50 p.m., reaching Dehradun at 10:35 p.m. on the same day.

The train, comprising Executive Class and Chair Car coaches, will make stops at Haridwar, Roorkee, Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, and Meerut City stations in both directions. The Dehradun-Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal) Vande Bharat Express will operate six days a week, excluding Wednesdays.

The introduction of this high-speed train will significantly improve connectivity to the picturesque tourist and pilgrimage destinations in Uttarakhand while drastically reducing travel time.