In a significant boost to rail connectivity, the Ministry of Railways is set to introduce 11 new train services originating from West Bengal and Assam this month. This major announcement comes as both states are heading for assembly elections later this year.
A Mix of Premium and Affordable Services
The new services include a blend of premium and budget-friendly options designed to cater to diverse passenger needs. Of the 11 new trains, eight will be Amrit Bharat Express services, one will be a Vande Bharat Sleeper train, and two will be new Express trains. Additionally, the Railway Board has approved the extension of a local MEMU train service in West Bengal.
The introduction of these services is expected to significantly improve inter-state connectivity, linking major cities across states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh with the eastern and northeastern regions of India.
Amrit Bharat Express: Affordable Luxury on New Routes
The Amrit Bharat Express trains are designed to offer a travel experience comparable to the Vande Bharat Express but at a more affordable price point, specifically targeting passengers from lower and lower-middle income categories.
The eight new Amrit Bharat Express trains are scheduled to launch on the following routes:
- New Jalpaiguri - Tiruchirappalli
- SMVT Bengaluru - Alipurduar
- Alipurduar - Panvel
- Dibrugarh - Gomti Nagar (Lucknow)
- Kamakhya - Rohtak
- Howrah - Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal)
- Sealdah - Banaras
- New Jalpaiguri - Nagercoil
Vande Bharat Sleeper: Speed and Comfort on Howrah-Guwahati Route
A key highlight of the announcement is the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train on the Howrah to Guwahati (Kamakhya) route. This 16-coach train will feature 11 Third AC coaches, four Second AC coaches, and one First AC coach.
Painted in a distinctive orange and grey livery, the train has a design speed of 180 kmph and is expected to offer a faster, safer, and more comfortable travel experience. It is poised to significantly enhance rail connectivity between eastern India and the Northeast.
New Express Trains and Local Service Extension
To further enhance connectivity, Indian Railways will introduce two new Express trains linking North Bengal with Karnataka. These trains will operate on the SMVT Bengaluru-Balurghat and SMVT Bengaluru-Radhikapur routes.
In a move for local commuters, the service of the Bankura-Maynapur MEMU Passenger train has been extended up to Jayrambati in West Bengal.
The rollout of these 11 new trains, slated for 2026, represents a substantial infrastructure push by Indian Railways, aiming to bridge geographical gaps and provide modern, efficient travel options to millions of passengers across the country.
