Modi to inaugurate India's 1st Vande Metro: All to know
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived on Sunday in Ahmedabad, where he is set to flag off India's first Vande Metro service between Bhuj and Ahmedabad, along with other Vande Bharat trains, on Monday. Western Railways shared on X (formerly Twitter) that the Vande Metro is "envisioned to redefine intercity commuting." It's described as a "leap forward in commuter comfort...a catalyst for economic growth in Kutch," with the promise to "drive job creation and boost local tourism."
Vande Metro service schedule and route details
The inaugural Vande Metro service from Ahmedabad to Bhuj will commence on Tuesday, followed by the return journey from Bhuj to Ahmedabad starting on Wednesday. The train will depart from Ahmedabad at 5:30pm daily except Saturdays, reaching Bhuj by 11:10pm. The return trip will leave Bhuj at 5:05am every day except Sundays, arriving in Ahmedabad by 10:50am.
Vande Metro's route, fare, and advanced features
The Vande Metro will stop at nine stations: Sabarmati, Chandlodiya, Viramgam, Dhrangadhra, Halvad, Samakhiali, Bhachau, Gandhidham and Anjar. The total fare for the journey is ₹455. The train boasts 12 air-conditioned coaches with automatic sliding doors and modular interiors. It also features continuous LED lighting and vacuum evacuation toilets. Other amenities include route map indicators, panoramic windows, CCTV surveillance systems and phone charging facilities for passenger convenience.
Vande Metro's advanced safety systems
The Vande Metro is equipped with advanced safety systems such as KAVACH for collision avoidance, automatic smoke/fire detection, and aerosol-based fire suppression. It also has emergency lights for added security. The train can cover a 360-kilometer distance in 5 hours and 45 minutes at a speed of 110km per hour. In terms of accessibility, it includes Divyangjan-friendly toilets, a fully sealed flexible gangway and meal service among other features.
