A tiny variant of the Vande Bharat Express train, the Vande Bharat Metro, will soon be introduced in the nation. Following the announcement of the Union Budget on February 1, 2023, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw presented the Vande Metro networks plan, which remained the subject of his address.
Indian Railways has recently created the Vande Metro, which is considered a smaller version of the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express, in response to the remarkable achievements of the Vande Bharat trains. Furthermore, the production of the Vande Metro is expected to rise in the upcoming fiscal year 2024-2025. So, what sets the Vande Metro apart from the Vande Bharat Express trains?
Compared to the Vande Bharat Express train’s 16 coaches, the Vande Metro train will be smaller, with only eight coaches. In order for students, businesspeople, and those employed in the service sector to commute to and from their places of employment comfortably and easily, it will assist in connecting smaller routes in major cities.
Apparently, the general managers of the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai and the Research Design and Standard Organization in Lucknow have been given instructions to launch the 8-coach Vande Metro rakes as soon as feasible. There will be a high frequency of Vande Metro trains. According to Vaishnaw, the Indian Railways’ goal is to run these trains between cities that are not more than 100 kilometers apart.
In addition, the minister added, Vande Bharat trains will also be produced in Sonipat, Haryana, Latur, Maharashtra, and Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, in addition to ICF Chennai. By the end of the following fiscal year, according to Vaishnaw, Railways should be able to introduce two to three additional Vande Bharat trains per week.
The capital expenditure for the Indian Railways this year was boosted to ₹2.40 lakh crore, the highest amount ever. While the majority of the funds will go towards track renewal, gauge conversion, and other related expenses, a sizeable portion will also be utilized to expand the number of Vande Bharat Express trains.
FAQ
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<strong>What is the ticket price of Vane Bharat Express</strong>
The ticket price of Vande Bharat Express ranges between ₹1,052 for General and ₹1,262 for a Tatkal ticket in Economy Class (CC Chair) and ₹1,869 for General and ₹2,299 for a Tatkal ticket in Premium Class (Executive Chair).
<strong>How will a Vande Bharat Metro contribute to India's development and competitiveness?</strong>
A Vande Bharat Metro will contribute to India’s development and competitiveness by enhancing transportation infrastructure, fostering economic growth, attracting investment, promoting tourism, and positioning India as a modern and progressive nation with world-class transportation facilities.
<strong>How can citizens support the development of a Vande Bharat Metro?</strong>
Citizens can support the development of a Vande Bharat Metro by advocating for sustainable and efficient transportation solutions, participating in public consultations and discussions, and raising awareness about the benefits of high-speed rail networks for India’s future development and prosperity.
<strong>What are the future prospects for the expansion of the Vande Bharat Metro network in India?</strong>
The future prospects for the expansion of the Vande Bharat Metro network in India are promising, with plans to introduce more trains on additional routes and upgrade existing infrastructure to further enhance connectivity, efficiency, and passenger experience.
<strong>What is the current status of high-speed rail projects in India?</strong>
India has several high-speed rail projects in various stages of planning and development, including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor (also known as the Bullet Train project) and proposed corridors connecting other major cities such as Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata.
<strong>What is the current status of the Vande Bharat Metro project?</strong>
As of now, the Vande Bharat Metro project is still in the planning and conceptualization stage, with feasibility studies, route alignments, and project financing being explored by relevant authorities and stakeholders.
<strong>What role will advanced technology play in the Vande Bharat Metro project?</strong>
Advanced technology, such as high-speed trains, intelligent signaling systems, automated fare collection, and smart station designs, will be integral to the Vande Bharat Metro project, ensuring safety, reliability, and passenger comfort.
<strong>How will the Vande Bharat Metro benefit daily commuters?</strong>
The Vande Bharat Metro aims to provide quicker transit times, comfortable seating, and modern amenities, which can make daily commutes more pleasant and less time-consuming for millions of urban residents.
<strong>How will the Vande Bharat Metro contribute to India's transportation infrastructure?</strong>
Understanding the role of the metro system in enhancing the overall transportation network is essential.
