Bhuj To Ahmedabad In 5 hours : Indian Railways Renames ‘Vande Metro’ To ‘Namo Bharat Rapid Rail’

Ahead of its launch, Indian Railways announced on Monday, September 16, the renaming of the 'Vande Metro' service to 'Namo Bharat Rapid Rail.' Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off India's first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, along with several other Vande Bharat trains, during his visit to Gujarat today.

The inaugural journey will begin from Bhuj and reach Ahmedabad, covering a distance of 359 kilometers in just 5 hours and 45 minutes. Regular passenger services will start on September 17, with tickets priced at Rs 455 for the full journey, offering an affordable travel option.

The train will operate at a maximum speed of 110 kmph and will stop at multiple stations, including Anjar, Gandhidham, Bhachau, Samakhiali, Halvad, Dhrangadhra, Viramgam, Chandlodiya, Sabarmati, and Kalupur (Ahmedabad station).

The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail marks a new chapter in metro travel, bridging inter-city destinations rather than just urban areas. It expands the concept of metro travel, connecting urban centres with surrounding regions, unlike traditional metro services.

The train can accommodate up to 2,058 standing passengers, with seating for 1,150. It features cushioned sofas and air-conditioned coaches, offering passengers a comfortable travel experience.

Though some have compared it to the Vande Bharat Express, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail is more similar to suburban metro trains, equipped with automatic sliding doors and engines at both ends. It will also operate as an unreserved service, allowing passengers to purchase tickets right before departure.