Vande Bharat Express Transforms Rail Travel, Carries Over 7.5 Crore Passengers Since 2019

Indian Railways’ Vande Bharat Express has emerged as a game-changer in India’s rail transport ecosystem, offering faster, safer, and more comfortable journeys since its launch in February 2019. Over the past six years, the premium train service has carried more than 7.5 crore passengers, reflecting its growing popularity among travellers across the country.

Currently, 164 Vande Bharat train services are operational, connecting major cities and key regions across India. These services span 274 districts, significantly enhancing regional connectivity while supporting tourism, business travel, and pilgrimage routes.

Designed and manufactured under the Make in India initiative, Vande Bharat trainsets are equipped with state-of-the-art features. These include automatic plug doors, ergonomically designed rotating seats, bio-vacuum toilets, GPS-based passenger information systems, and comprehensive CCTV surveillance. Together, these facilities deliver a modern, world-class travel experience comparable to global rail standards.

Vande Bharat trains have played a vital role in linking India’s cultural, spiritual, and economic centres. The Delhi–Varanasi route, for instance, provides swift and reliable connectivity between the national capital and one of the country’s most prominent spiritual destinations. Similarly, the Srinagar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra route has strengthened access to a major pilgrimage site, boosting religious tourism and regional development. This route was inaugurated on June 6, 2025, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In the southern region, the Bengaluru–Hyderabad Vande Bharat service has gained popularity among IT professionals and business travellers, offering a time-efficient and comfortable option between two major technology hubs.

From its humble beginning with a single service in 2019, the Vande Bharat network has expanded rapidly into a nationwide system transporting lakhs of passengers every month. Beyond convenience and speed, these trains also contribute to sustainability by helping reduce carbon emissions compared to road and air travel.

The overwhelming passenger response highlights India’s growing demand for modern rail infrastructure. Alongside Vande Bharat Express, initiatives such as Amrit Bharat Express and Namo Bharat Rapid Rail are further strengthening the country’s high-tech rail offerings. Looking ahead, the upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are expected to revolutionise overnight journeys by combining speed with enhanced comfort and advanced amenities for long-distance travellers.