Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express inaugurated; other Vande Bharat trains launched this year

In a bid to boost connectivity between Patna and Gorakhpur, another Vande Bharat train was launched yesterday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express was inaugurated by video conferencing from Siwan, Bihar. This semi-high-speed train aims to enhance connectivity between the two prime cities in North India. The train is set to reduce travel time between the cities significantly on the 384 km route.

Train Details:

Train Numbers: 26502 (Gorakhpur to Patliputra), 26501 (Patliputra to Gorakhpur)
Frequency: Operates six days a week (no service on Saturdays)
Journey Time: Approximately 7 hours
Coaches: 8-coach configuration with a seating capacity of 1,130
Classes: Executive Chair Car (EC) and Chair Car (CC)
Fares: EC fares range from ₹715 to ₹1,820; CC fares range from ₹380 to ₹925, depending on the segment .

Halts

The train will go through major cities and halt at several stations including Gorakhpur, Bagaha, Narkatiaganj, Bettiah, Sagauli, Bapudham Motihari, Muzaffarpur, Hajipur, and Patliputra. Notably, the train halts at Bagaha, a station that was added following efforts by local MP Sunil Kumar .

Amenities

The Vande Bharat Express is equipped with modern amenities such as:

Fully air-conditioned coaches
Rotatable airline-style seats
Onboard Wi-Fi and infotainment systems
Bio-toilets and CCTV surveillance
KAVACH anti-collision system
Overhead baggage racks and tray tables

Strategic Importance
This new service is expected to enhance regional mobility, benefiting daily commuters, students, and business travelers. It also aligns with the government's "Make in India" initiative, showcasing India's capabilities in advanced railway manufacturing.

On this note, let’s have a look at some of the major Vande Bharat Trains introduced in 2025:

In addition to the Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express, several other Vande Bharat trains were launched in 2025:

Sabarmati (Ahmedabad) – Veraval Vande Bharat Express:

Route: Connects Ahmedabad with Veraval in Gujarat
Journey Time: Approximately 7 hours
Frequency: Six days a week (except Thursdays)
Amenities: Similar to other Vande Bharat trains, including onboard catering and infotainment systems .

Meerut City–Lucknow Charbagh Vande Bharat Express:


Route: Connects Meerut City with Lucknow Charbagh in Uttar Pradesh
Journey Time: Approximately 7 hours 10 minutes
Frequency: Six days a week (except Tuesdays)
Amenities: Onboard catering and entertainment systems .

These additions are part of India's broader efforts to modernize its railway infrastructure and provide efficient, comfortable travel options for passengers across the country.