In a significant development for rail connectivity in Haryana, the Vande Bharat Express made its maiden stop at Kurukshetra railway station on Monday, marking a historic moment for the ancient pilgrimage city.
Historic Moment for Kurukshetra
The semi-high-speed train, which operates between Ambala and Delhi, included Kurukshetra as a scheduled stop for the first time since its inauguration. This development comes after persistent demands from local residents and pilgrims who sought better connectivity to the religiously significant city.
Railway officials confirmed that the Vande Bharat Express will now regularly halt at Kurukshetra station in both directions. The northbound train (number 22478) arrives at 8:10 am, while the southbound service (number 22477) reaches at 8:35 pm, providing convenient timings for daily commuters and visitors alike.
Enhanced Connectivity for Pilgrims and Commuters
Kurukshetra, known worldwide for its historical and religious significance as the battlefield of the epic Mahabharata, attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. The inclusion of Vande Bharat stop will significantly reduce travel time for those visiting the holy city from the national capital region.
Local authorities expressed enthusiasm about the development. The Station Superintendent at Kurukshetra highlighted how this upgrade aligns with the station's recent infrastructure improvements, including enhanced passenger amenities and better waiting areas.
The Vande Bharat Express now connects three major cities in Haryana - Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Delhi - creating an efficient transportation corridor that supports both religious tourism and daily commuting needs. The train's modern amenities and reduced travel time are expected to boost economic activity in the region.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Future Prospects
This strategic halt demonstrates Indian Railways' commitment to improving connectivity to important religious and cultural centers across the country. The decision reflects the growing importance of Kurukshetra as both a pilgrimage destination and an emerging urban center in northern India.
Regular passengers expressed their satisfaction with the new stop, noting that the Vande Bharat service will now provide them with a faster, more comfortable travel option compared to conventional trains. The development is particularly significant for students, professionals, and business travelers who frequently commute between these cities.
Railway authorities have ensured that all necessary safety and operational protocols are in place to accommodate the Vande Bharat Express at Kurukshetra station. The station staff has received special training to handle the semi-high-speed train's specific requirements.
This enhancement in rail connectivity is expected to boost tourism in Kurukshetra, especially during major religious festivals and cultural events when the city witnesses a substantial influx of visitors. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, anticipate increased footfall due to improved transportation access.
The successful integration of Kurukshetra into the Vande Bharat route network represents another step in Indian Railways' ongoing mission to modernize rail transport and connect important cultural and economic centers across the country with efficient, high-quality service.
