Enhancing Rail Connectivity: Second Vande Bharat Express Flagged Off Between Secunderabad and Visakhapatnam
In a significant move aimed at enhancing rail connectivity, Union Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Development of Northeast Region, G. Kishan Reddy, emphasized the pivotal role of railways in the Modi government’s agenda, citing significant investments and infrastructure projects undertaken during the last two terms.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony via video conference, Minister G. Kishan Reddy highlighted key initiatives undertaken to bolster railway infrastructure, including the redevelopment of stations in Secunderabad and Hyderabad, the introduction of indigenously manufactured Vande Bharat trains, and the nearing completion of essential projects such as the wagon manufacturing unit and the passenger terminal at Cherlapalli.
The event marked the flag-off ceremony for the second Vande Bharat Express, connecting Secunderabad and Visakhapatnam, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw presiding over the ceremony. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy also participated virtually, underscoring the collaborative efforts to enhance rail connectivity in the region.
Scheduled to operate six days a week, except Thursdays, the new Vande Bharat Express service promises seamless travel between Secunderabad and Visakhapatnam, with regular operations commencing from March 13. The train departs from Secunderabad at 5:05 a.m., reaching Visakhapatnam at 1:50 p.m., while the return journey from Visakhapatnam to Secunderabad starts at 2:35 p.m. and arrives at 11:20 p.m., stopping at key stations such as Warangal, Khammam, Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, and Samalkot along the route.
Comprising seven AC chair car coaches and one executive AC chair car coach, the Vande Bharat Express offers a comfortable journey for up to 530 passengers. The existing Vande Bharat Train serving the two Telugu States has consistently operated at more than 100% occupancy, highlighting the demand for enhanced rail connectivity in the region.
In addition to the inauguration of the second Vande Bharat Express, the ceremony also witnessed the launch of two more new trains – Kalaburagi – Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express and Kollam – Tirupati Mail Express – along with the unveiling of nine cargo terminals, 11 goods sheds, three railway coach restaurants, and new doubling/tripling works across the South Central Railway zone.
The inauguration ceremony signifies the government’s commitment to bolstering connectivity and infrastructure development, fostering economic growth and facilitating seamless travel experiences for passengers across the region.
