Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the second saffron-coloured Vande Bharat Express connecting Varanasi and New Delhi on Monday afternoon (December 18). The inaugural run of this cutting-edge train from Varanasi to New Delhi took place on December 18 at 2:15 pm.
Notably, the train will run six days a week, departing from Varanasi at 6:00 am, reaching New Delhi at 2:05 pm, and returning at 3:00 pm, with a scheduled arrival in Varanasi at 11:05 pm.
Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express features
The Northern Railway (NR) announced the new train’s advanced features, including onboard Wi-Fi infotainment, GPS-based passenger information system, bio-vacuum toilets with touch-free conveniences, and more.
The train, equipped with plush interiors, diffused LED lighting, charging points beneath every seat, and individual touch-based reading lights, promises a superior travel experience.
It also boasts a state-of-the-art air-conditioning system with UV lamps for germ-free air supply.
Operating between Varanasi and New Delhi, this semi-high speed train is the second ultra-modern addition to the route, following the introduction of train number 22435/22436 New Delhi-Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express in 2019.
Comparatively, the first Vande Bharat train, currently operating between New Delhi and Varanasi, departs from Delhi at 6:00 am, reaching its destination at 2:00 pm. It then departs for New Delhi at 3:00 pm and arrives at its destination by 11:00 pm, operating six days a week, excluding Thursdays.
Why is the new Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express saffron?
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the choice of saffron colour is based on scientific visibility considerations rather than political motivations.