India's First 20-Coach Vande Bharat Train Begins Commercial Operations On Varanasi-New Delhi Route

In a significant boost to India's rail network, Indian Railways has commercially launched its first 20-coach Vande Bharat Express train from Varanasi Junction. 

This new train, flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier in the week, connects the holy city of Varanasi with New Delhi, offering faster and more efficient travel for passengers.

Currently, two pairs of 16-coach Vande Bharat trains operate on this route, consistently running at over 100 per cent capacity. 

The 20-coach Vande Bharat Express, developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, marks an upgrade from the previous 16 and 8-coach versions. 

With a capacity of 1,440 passengers, the larger train is expected to ease waitlists and provide more convenience for last-minute travellers. 

The Northern Railway zone will operate and maintain the train, reports Financial Express.

The train covers a distance of 771 kilometres in approximately eight hours, making it the fastest train on this route. Along the way, it will make stops at Prayagraj Junction and Kanpur Central.