PM Modi to virtually flag off Northeast's first Vande Bharat Express

Guwahati, May 28, 2023, IANS

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to virtually flag off the first Vande Bharat Express in the northeastern region of India. 

The inaugural journey of the semi-high-speed train will commence from Guwahati, Assam, and travel to New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. 

This development marks a significant milestone in enhancing rail connectivity and modernizing travel options for the people of the region.

The Vande Bharat Express will traverse through various districts, including Kamrup Metropolitan, Kamrup Rural, Nalbari, Barpeta, Chirang, and Kokrajhar in Assam, as well as Alipurduar, New Coochbehar, and Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. 

The introduction of this train will greatly benefit the residents of these areas, offering them a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation.

With state-of-the-art amenities on board, the semi-high-speed train promises a remarkable travel experience for passengers in the Northeast. 

Additionally, the train's introduction will lead to a significant reduction in travel time on the New Jalpaiguri-Guwahati route, cutting it down by approximately an hour. 

This improved connectivity is expected to boost sectors like trade, tourism, and travel in the region.

The Vande Bharat Express is composed of eight coaches, accommodating a total of 530 passengers. Its one-way journey covers a distance of 411 kilometers in just 5 hours and 30 minutes. 

The train is equipped with modern facilities, providing a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience for passengers.

In conjunction with the launch of the Vande Bharat Express, Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the newly electrified 91.03-kilometer-long section of New Bongaigaon-Dudhnoi-Mendipathar. 

The electrification of this section enables freight and passenger trains with electric traction to enter Meghalaya from various parts of the country, enhancing connectivity and logistics in the region.

Additionally, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the newly electrified Guwahati-Chaparmukh section, spanning 91 kilometers. This development further strengthens the rail network in the region, facilitating efficient transportation and connectivity.

Furthermore, the recently constructed DEMU/MEMU shed at Lumding will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi. 

This facility holds strategic importance as Lumding serves as the gateway to hilly northeastern states such as Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, Manipur, and other parts of Assam. The shed will enhance the operational feasibility and passenger amenities for DEMU rakes operating in this region.

The virtual flagging off of the Vande Bharat Express and the inauguration of these crucial rail infrastructure projects signify the government's commitment to improving connectivity and enhancing travel experiences in the northeastern region. 

These developments are expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy, tourism, and overall development. (Edited)