Prime Minister Modi Flags Off 71st Vande Bharat Train, Promising Reduced Travel Time and Enhanced Features

Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flagged off the 71st Vande Bharat train from Siwan, marking a significant advancement in India's railway services. The new train aims to reduce travel time by two hours between Patliputra and Gorakhpur, the Railway Ministry announced.

The inaugural journey commenced at 1 pm from Patliputra station, enveloped in a festive atmosphere. Although a commercial date remains unspecified, notifications suggest a daily run from Gorakhpur at 5.40 am reaching Patliputra by 12.45 pm, and returning at 3.30 pm to reach Gorakhpur by 10.30 pm.

Equipped with LED displays, bio-vacuum toilets, and an advanced safety system called Kavach, the train promises world-class amenities. While it runs six days a week, a 130 kmph speed limit currently restricts its full potential. Despite this, the rapid installation of Kavach systems indicates imminent safety advancements.

(With inputs from agencies.)