The railway network in Odisha is set for a significant upgrade as Indian Railways prepares to introduce six new Amrit Bharat Express trains that will pass through the state. This expansion will dramatically increase the presence of this newly-designed, affordable non-AC sleeper service in the region.
A Major Connectivity Push for the State
Currently, only one Amrit Bharat Express service operates in connection with Odisha – the Berhampur–Udhna (Surat) route. With the addition of these six new services, the total number of Amrit Bharat Express trains passing through Odisha will rise to seven. This move is aimed at providing modern travel options to a larger segment of passengers.
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) zone has stated that the Amrit Bharat Express is designed to improve passenger comfort through several key features. These include modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches, improved seating arrangements, and upgraded onboard facilities. The service promises a contemporary travel experience while keeping fares affordable.
New Routes and Key Stops in Odisha
According to the ECoR, the six new trains will operate on the following long-distance routes:
- Tambaram–Santragachi
- Tiruchirappalli–New Jalpaiguri
- Bengaluru–Alipur Duar
- Nagercoil–New Jalpaiguri
- Bengaluru–Radhikapur
- Bengaluru–Balurghat
During their journeys, these trains are scheduled to make crucial stops at multiple stations across Odisha. Passengers will be able to board or alight at Berhampur, Balugaon, Khurda Road, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Jajpur-Keonjhar Road, Bhadrak, and Balasore. This will enhance inter-city and interstate connectivity for residents.
Inauguration and Broader Rollout Plans
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to launch these six Amrit Bharat Express trains on January 17 and 18. The major rollout event will also include the launch of two new Vande Bharat sleeper trains, marking a focused push to modernize India’s passenger rail services.
The railways have emphasized that the Amrit Bharat Express service, with its energy-efficient LHB coaches, is specifically tailored to benefit middle-class passengers who rely on economical travel. The ECoR, in a statement, highlighted that the service is “designed to offer a modern travel experience at affordable fares.”
They further added, "With its modern design, affordable fares, and energy-efficient LHB coaches, this service will particularly benefit middle-class passengers who depend on economical travel while contributing to regional growth and people-centric development."
This expansion is seen as a strategic step to boost regional connectivity and provide a comfortable, budget-friendly travel alternative on some of the busiest corridors in the country, directly impacting the mobility and economic prospects of Odisha.
