Vande Bharat Express: Transforming Indian Railways with Speed and Comfort

Indian Railways' Vande Bharat Express network has seen a 34% growth in passenger numbers, with 3.98 crore travelers in FY 2025-26. Since 2019, it has served over 9.1 crore passengers. The introduction of Vande Bharat Sleeper service boosts connectivity and reflects travelers' rising preference for modern rail experiences.

The Vande Bharat Express has dramatically transformed rail travel in India, with Indian Railways witnessing a considerable 34% increase in passenger numbers in FY 2025-26. A total of 3.98 crore passengers chose the Vande Bharat Express, demonstrating a growing preference for quick, comfortable, and contemporary rail experiences across the country.

Originally launched in February 2019 on the New Delhi-Varanasi corridor, this semi-high-speed train is a product of India's 'Make in India' initiative, spotlighting speed, comfort, and national self-sufficiency. Its reputation for efficiency has turned it into a vital part of the nationwide travel infrastructure.

The Vande Bharat Express has reinforced connections on several key routes. The New Delhi-Varanasi route remains the most trafficked, followed by the New Delhi-Katra and Secunderabad-Visakhapatnam routes, supporting both regional and pilgrimage travel. With the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper service, Indian Railways has expanded its capacity for long-distance overnight trips, reflecting a strong demand among travelers for premium options.