Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off the Gorakhpur-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express today, marking the second Vande Bharat Express in Uttar Pradesh. This mini version of the high-speed train, comprising 8 coaches, will connect Ayodhya, the holy city, with Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, and Gorakhpur, the former constituency of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Let’s delve into the details of this new train service and its significance for the region.
Timing and Schedule:
The Gorakhpur-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express will operate six days a week, excluding Saturdays. With a capacity of a little over 550 passengers, the train will run on Mondays to Fridays and Sundays. Departing from Gorakhpur at 06:05, it will arrive at Lucknow station at 10:20. The return journey will commence from Lucknow at 19:15, reaching Gorakhpur Jn at 23:25. This convenient schedule aims to cater to the travel needs of commuters and enhance connectivity between these cities.
Route and Halts:
The semi-high-speed train will traverse a scenic route, making halts at Sahjanwa, Khalilabad, Basti, Babhnan, Mankapur, Ayodhya, and Barabanki. However, starting from July 9, regular services will only include halts at Basti and Ayodhya. Additionally, an operational halt will be made at the Mankapur level crossing. The train will undergo maintenance at a new facility in Gorakhpur every Saturday, ensuring its smooth operation.
Fare and Accommodation:
Bookings for the Gorakhpur-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express, managed by the North Eastern Railway, have already commenced. The train consists of seven chair cars and one executive-class coach, accommodating a total of 556 passengers. The base fare for a chair car seat is Rs 724, while an executive-class seat costs Rs 1,470 for the journey from Gorakhpur to Lucknow. Passengers will be provided with meals, snacks, and tea by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
Boosting Connectivity and Tourism:
The introduction of the Gorakhpur-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express enhances connectivity between Ayodhya, Lucknow, and Gorakhpur, promoting tourism and facilitating easier travel for commuters. It strengthens the transportation network in the state of Uttar Pradesh and showcases the government’s commitment to improving rail infrastructure.
Conclusion:
The launch of the Gorakhpur-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express is a significant step in connecting important cities within Uttar Pradesh. This mini version of the high-speed train provides a convenient and comfortable mode of travel for passengers while promoting tourism and bolstering connectivity. With its efficient schedule, scenic route, and modern amenities, the train aims to enhance the travel experience for residents and visitors alike, further contributing to the development of the region.
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