Indian Railways is all set to revolutionize train travel in Kerala with the launch of two 20-coach Vande Bharat Express trains on January 10, 2025. These advanced trains will not only improve travel efficiency but also mark a significant milestone as the third and fourth 20-coach semi-high-speed trains in India, following the earlier launches on the New Delhi-Varanasi and Nagpur-Secunderabad routes.
Enhanced Connectivity in Kerala with Vande Bharat Express
The new Vande Bharat Express trains will strengthen Kerala’s connectivity, linking key destinations like Thiruvananthapuram and Kasaragod. Below is the detailed schedule:
- Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod:
Departure: 5:15 AM
Arrival: 1:20 PM - Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram:
Departure: 2:30 PM
Arrival: 10:40 PM
These trains will operate daily except on Thursdays, providing passengers with a faster and more comfortable travel option starting January 10, 2025.
Meeting High Passenger Demand with 20-Coach Trains
Traditionally, Vande Bharat Express trains operated with 8 or 16 coaches. However, increasing passenger demand, especially during peak seasons and festivals, called for an upgrade. The 20-coach trains, built at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and handed over to Southern Railway, are expected to cater to this demand effectively.
Currently, 136 Vande Bharat trains operate across India, and the addition of these two 20-coach trains will further enhance the country’s railway network.
Routes and Ticket Pricing for New Vande Bharat Trains
Train 1: Thiruvananthapuram Central-Kasaragod Vande Bharat Express
- Route Details: Covers 588 km in just 8 hours and 5 minutes.
- Ticket Fares:
- AC Chair Car: ₹1,590
- Executive Chair Car: ₹2,880
Train 2: Tirunelveli-Chennai Egmore Vande Bharat Express
- Route Details: Covers 653 km in just 7 hours and 50 minutes.
- Ticket Fares:
- AC Chair Car: ₹1,665
- Executive Chair Car: ₹3,055
Both trains will significantly reduce travel time between these major destinations, offering unparalleled convenience to passengers.
Kerala’s Semi-High-Speed Revolution
The introduction of these Vande Bharat Express trains marks a new chapter for train travel in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. By replacing existing 8-coach and 16-coach trains, the 20-coach versions will provide a smoother, faster, and more luxurious experience. These trains are equipped with cutting-edge features, including:
- High-speed capabilities
- Comfortable seating
- State-of-the-art interiors
Why Vande Bharat Express is a Game Changer
The Vande Bharat Express has become synonymous with speed, efficiency, and luxury. Designed and developed locally, these trains represent India’s strides toward self-reliance in technology and infrastructure. The addition of 20-coach variants further highlights Indian Railways’ commitment to meeting growing passenger demands.
To know more about the Vande Bharat Express and other routes, visit the official website of Indian Railways or check updates on IRCTC’s portal.
Conclusion
With the launch of the 20-coach Vande Bharat Express trains, passengers in Kerala and Tamil Nadu can look forward to a new era of fast, efficient, and comfortable travel. As Indian Railways continues to innovate and expand, these advancements pave the way for a more connected and modern India.
Image Credit: PTI
