Are Pilgrim Places Being Connected via Vande Bharat Network to Symbolize the Nation’s Progress?
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Synopsis
On November 8, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Varanasi, aiming to connect pilgrim spots across India. This initiative is not just about transportation; it's a transformative step that positions India's heritage cities as symbols of progress, contributing to both tourism and local economies.
Key Takeaways
- Vande Bharat Express trains launched to connect pilgrimage sites.
- Significant economic boost for local tourism.
- Improved healthcare facilities in Kashi.
- Modern amenities in Vande Bharat trains enhance travel experience.
- Heritage cities positioned as symbols of national progress.
Varanasi, Nov 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Varanasi, emphasizing that pilgrim destinations throughout India are being integrated through the Vande Bharat network. This initiative represents a significant stride towards transforming India’s heritage cities into icons of the nation’s progress.
While speaking at the event, PM Modi remarked, “Pilgrim sites are being linked via the Vande Bharat network. This marks a pivotal move in making India’s heritage cities a representation of our national advancement. There is also an economic aspect to these journeys. Last year, 11 crore devotees visited Kashi for the Kashi Vishwanath pilgrimage. Following the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, over six crore devotees made their way to Ayodhya. The economy of Uttar Pradesh has significantly benefitted from this spiritual tourism.”
“These devotees have provided support to hotel owners, merchants, and transport service providers, thereby ensuring a consistent income stream,” he added.
“To realize the vision of a Viksit Bharat, we are concentrating on the development of Viksit Kashi by enhancing infrastructure. In addition, we are also upgrading health facilities. Approximately 10-11 years ago, the residents of Kashi lacked access to quality healthcare. Cancer patients often had to sell their land to seek treatment in Mumbai. Today, our government has significantly improved this situation. Individuals are now saving costs through initiatives like Jan Aushadhi and Ayushman Bharat. Kashi is progressively being recognized as a ‘Health Capital.’ We must maintain this momentum of development to ensure Kashi evolves into a prosperous and progressive city,” PM Modi stated.
In addition, the four new Vande Bharat Express trains will run on the following routes: Varanasi–Khajuraho, Bengaluru–Ernakulam, Lucknow Junction–Saharanpur, and Firozpur Cantt–Delhi.
The fully air-conditioned Vande Bharat Express is a self-propelled train capable of reaching a maximum speed of 180 kmph, although it currently operates at 160 kmph on approved routes. The chair car service boasts several aircraft-style amenities such as personalized reading lights, bio-vacuum toilets, and ambient lighting.
Other modern features include automatic sliding doors, fully sealed gangways, European-style seating, rotating seats in Executive Class, enhanced acceleration and braking, spacious luggage racks, emergency call buttons, and modular mini pantries.
Point of View
The initiative to connect pilgrim destinations through the Vande Bharat network is a commendable move that underscores India's commitment to enhancing infrastructure while promoting spiritual tourism. The economic benefits derived from this initiative will have long-lasting impacts on local communities, making it imperative for the nation to support such progressive measures.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Vande Bharat Express trains?
The Vande Bharat Express trains aim to connect various pilgrim places across India, enhancing accessibility to heritage cities and promoting tourism.
How will this initiative benefit local economies?
By increasing the number of visitors to pilgrim sites, the initiative will provide steady income to hotel owners, traders, and transport service providers in the region.
What routes will the new trains cover?
The new Vande Bharat Express trains will operate on the routes: Varanasi–Khajuraho, Bengaluru–Ernakulam, Lucknow Junction–Saharanpur, and Firozpur Cantt–Delhi.
What features does the Vande Bharat Express offer?
The Vande Bharat Express includes modern amenities such as personalized reading lights, bio-vacuum toilets, automatic sliding doors, and European-style seating.
How does this initiative relate to healthcare improvements in Kashi?
The development of Viksit Kashi focuses not only on infrastructure for tourism but also on enhancing health facilities, ensuring better access to healthcare for the residents.
