The Railway Ministry has unveiled the timetable for the country’s first Vande Metro train, set to operate in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state of Gujarat. This new service will connect Bhuj and Ahmedabad, offering a modern commuting option for residents and visitors alike.
Route Details
The Vande Metro will run from Bhuj to Ahmedabad, making stops at the following stations:
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- Anjar
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- Gandhidham
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- Bhachau
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- Samkhiyali
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- Halvad
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- Dhrangadhra
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- Viramgam
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- Chandlodiya
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- Sabarmati
Timetable Overview
The train will operate six days a week with the following schedule:
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- Departure from Bhuj: 05:05 AM, arriving in Ahmedabad at 10:50 AM
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- Return from Ahmedabad: 05:30 PM, arriving in Bhuj at 11:10 PM
The train will make stops at nine stations, with an average stoppage time of two minutes at each station. The entire journey will take approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes.
Fare Structure
The fare for the Vande Metro train has been announced, with a minimum charge of Rs 30, plus applicable GST. For a distance of 50 kilometers, the fare will be Rs 60 plus GST, translating to a cost of Rs 1.20 per kilometer.
Monthly Seasonal Tickets (MST)
Passengers will have the option of purchasing a Monthly Seasonal Ticket (MST) specifically for the Vande Metro. However, MSTs issued for regular mail, express, or passenger trains will not be valid. New MSTs will be offered in weekly, fortnightly, and monthly formats, with fares adjusted accordingly.
Service Schedule
The Vande Metro will run six days a week. The service from Bhuj will operate on Monday through Saturday, with no service on Sunday. Conversely, the train departing from Ahmedabad will not run on Saturdays but will be available on Sundays.
Manufacturing Details
The first rake of the Vande Metro has been manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. The design is modeled after the metro services found in major cities, providing a fully air-conditioned travel experience that emphasizes comfort and speed.
Speed Specifications
This train is designed to reach speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour; however, it will operate at speeds between 100 to 150 kilometers per hour on the designated route. The Vande Metro aims to facilitate daily commutes for individuals traveling to nearby urban centers, enhancing the overall travel experience with modern amenities.
Design Features
The Vande Metro shares design elements with the Vande Bharat trains, including automatic doors that enhance passenger safety. This feature ensures that no passengers can stand at the doors or on the footboard while the train is in motion, promoting a safer travel environment.
