PM Modi Flags Off Vande Bharat Connecting Ahmedabad and Somnath

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday flagged off two new trains via video conferencing from Dahod, Gujarat. These include the much-anticipated Sabarmati–Veraval Vande Bharat Express and a new daily express train between Valsad and Dahod. Both trains will be operated by Western Railway and aim to boost connectivity and tourism in the state.

The Sabarmati–Veraval Vande Bharat Express is a semi-high-speed train connecting Ahmedabad to Veraval, which is the nearest railway station to the famous Somnath temple. This move is expected to significantly improve travel for pilgrims and tourists visiting the iconic temple town. The train will begin its regular operations starting Tuesday.

The introduction of this Vande Bharat Express is also part of the government’s larger push to modernize rail services and enhance travel comfort. With reduced travel time, improved onboard amenities, and increased frequency, the train is likely to become a preferred choice for those commuting between Ahmedabad and the Saurashtra region.

The new route is expected to boost tourism, particularly religious tourism, as Somnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year. By improving access to this key pilgrimage site, the government hopes to increase footfall and promote regional economic development.

Apart from the Vande Bharat train, PM Modi also launched a new daily express train connecting Valsad and Dahod. This train is designed to meet the long-standing travel demands of people residing in southern and eastern Gujarat. The service will make it easier for workers, students, and traders to travel between the two towns and improve regional connectivity.

Addressing the launch event virtually, PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming India’s railway infrastructure. He emphasized that modern trains like the Vande Bharat are a symbol of New India’s progress and are designed to offer both speed and comfort.

The launch of these trains is part of a broader infrastructure push in Gujarat, which includes improved railways, highways, and ports to support the state’s economic and social development. With these new services, Western Railway continues to play a vital role in linking key cities and towns across Gujarat.

The addition of the Ahmedabad-Somnath Vande Bharat route is also expected to set a precedent for more high-speed and semi-high-speed trains connecting major pilgrimage and tourist destinations in India.

AM.