On March 11, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a virtual inauguration of several new railway services and infrastructure initiatives from Tiruchirappalli, notably launching the flagship Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express.

This weekly train service will establish a direct link between Podanur Junction in Coimbatore and Dhanbad in Jharkhand, effectively connecting the industrial hubs of South India with the coal and mineral-rich regions of Eastern India.

During the event, PM Modi also introduced two additional Amrit Bharat Express trains, two express trains, and a range of passenger services. The Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express will set off from Podanur every Saturday morning, arriving in Dhanbad by Monday morning, with its return journey commencing from Dhanbad on Monday.

Notable stops along the route include Salem, Renigunta, Vijayawada, Jharsuguda, Ranchi, and Bokaro Steel City. This service provides vital connectivity between Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand.

This train is anticipated to greatly benefit the thousands of migrant workers employed in the textile and manufacturing sectors in Coimbatore and Tiruppur, who previously faced the inconvenience of multiple train changes and lengthy travel times to return to their homes in Jharkhand and Odisha. The new service will offer a direct, affordable, and comfortable travel option.

In a conversation with IANS, DRM of Salem Division Panna Lal expressed, “It is a moment of pride that PM Modi has inaugurated several projects and trains in Tamil Nadu. The Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express will enhance convenience for travelers between South and North India and is dedicated to the public’s service.”

He emphasized the train’s modern features, which include LHB coaches for improved safety, cushioned seating in even the unreserved coaches, high-quality toilets, charging sockets, and direct communication with the crew during emergencies.

LHB coaches are contemporary stainless-steel coaches manufactured in India for the Indian Railways. They provide enhanced safety, higher speeds of up to 160 km/h, and increased passenger capacity compared to older ICF coaches. These coaches are longer by two meters, offering more space.

Additional features include fire detection systems, CCTV surveillance, and enhanced ventilation. As a non-AC train, it facilitates comfortable long-distance travel at economical fares.

This launch is part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and railway expansion initiatives aimed at enhancing economic and social connectivity between South and Southeast India, benefiting migrant workers, industries, and regular commuters.