Ahmedabad: Indian Railways has announced the first passenger express train service originating from Gandhigram, a station situated in the heart of the city. This move addresses a long-standing demand for better connectivity beyond the two local trains currently serving the Bhavnagar side. The introduction of this service is expected to significantly improve long-distance connectivity from Ahmedabad's western rail corridor. However, it has also revived concerns about potential traffic disruptions as trains will now pass through dense city stretches.
Traffic Concerns in Residential Areas
Residents and commuters in Navrangpura and parts of Naranpura are likely to face major traffic snarls at level crossings when the train movement increases through the city. Earlier, the Sabarmati–Bhavnagar service was curtailed to Gandhigram to reduce such congestion. The new operational pattern is being closely watched for its impact on road traffic management. Local authorities are expected to implement measures to mitigate delays, but the increase in train frequency remains a point of contention among daily commuters.
Details of the New Service
This is probably the first train to be introduced at a station other than the ones at Sabarmati and Kalupur in Ahmedabad. The newly announced service is the Gandhigram–Prayagraj bi-weekly special, which will operate on special fare. The train will depart Gandhigram at 5:20 PM every Sunday and Wednesday from May 31 to July 15, reaching Prayagraj at 8:00 PM the next day. In the return direction, the train will leave Prayagraj at 4:15 PM every Saturday and Tuesday from May 30 to July 14, arriving at Gandhigram at 3:30 PM the following day.
Stops and Coach Composition
The train will make stops at several stations, including Chandkheda Road, Mehsana, Palanpur, Abu Road, Falna, Marwar Junction, Ajmer, Jaipur, Bharatpur, Idgah, Tundla, Etawah, Govindpuri, and Fatehpur. The rake will consist of second class, sleeper, and AC 3-tier coaches, catering to a variety of passenger needs. This service is expected to provide an affordable and comfortable travel option for those traveling between Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.
Railway officials have stated that the introduction of this train is part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity from suburban stations. Further expansions may be considered based on passenger response and operational feasibility. Meanwhile, city planners are evaluating traffic management strategies to minimize disruptions caused by increased train movements through residential areas.
