Today marks a significant milestone as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the country’s first Vande Metro train, now officially named the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail. This initiative aligns with recent changes by Indian Railways, which earlier renamed the RapidX to Namo Bharat. The inaugural Namo Bharat Rapid Rail will operate on the Bhuj-Ahmedabad route, heralding a new era of faster and more efficient transportation in India.
The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail will run six days a week. The train will not operate on Sundays from Bhuj and will have no service on Saturdays in Ahmedabad. Covering a distance of 359 kilometers, it will stop at the following stations:
Anjar
Gandhidham
Bhachau
Samakhiali
Halvad
Dhrangadhra
Viramgam
Chandlodia
Sabarmati
The train departs Bhuj at 5:05 AM, arriving in Ahmedabad at 10:50 AM. The return journey will leave Ahmedabad at 5:30 PM and reach Bhuj by 11:10 PM, with brief stops of about two minutes at each station along the route.
The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail features a competitive fare structure. The minimum fare is set at Rs 30, with additional charges for superfast service, reservations, and GST. Passengers traveling 50 kilometers can expect to pay Rs 60, plus applicable fees. Fares will increase by Rs 1.20 for each additional kilometer beyond this distance.
This pricing model aims to provide an affordable alternative to existing transport options, particularly compared to AC suburban trains in cities like Mumbai.
The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail will consist of 12 coaches, accommodating up to 1,150 passengers. It is designed to complete the 359-kilometer journey in just 5 hours and 45 minutes, making it a time-efficient choice for commuters.
Unlike typical metro trains that operate within city limits, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail connects peripheral cities to major urban centers, enhancing regional connectivity for commuters.
Operating at a maximum speed of 110 kilometers per hour, the train ensures a swift journey while prioritizing passenger comfort and safety. A notable safety feature includes an advanced anti-collision system, referred to as ‘armor.’
In addition to the Bhuj-Ahmedabad route, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail will soon extend its services to the Delhi-Meerut route, providing another fast commuting option in northern India, with several sections already operational.
Prime Minister Modi will also flag off six additional Vande Bharat trains today, further enhancing the nation’s high-speed rail network.
Regular passenger service for the Bhuj-Ahmedabad Namo Bharat Rapid Rail is set to commence on September 17. For the entire journey, passengers will pay Rs 455, making it a cost-effective option for long-distance travel.
The introduction of the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail is a pivotal step in modernizing India’s rail infrastructure, offering faster, safer, and more affordable transportation for millions. With its speed, efficiency, and advanced safety features, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail is poised to establish new benchmarks for public transport across the nation.
