Bengaluru: India’s flagship semi-high-speed train service, Vande Bharat Express, has crossed a major milestone, serving over 9.1 crore passengers across one lakh trips since its launch, according to the Ministry of Railways.
The latest data highlights strong growth in passenger demand, with 3.98 crore यात्रियों in FY 2025–26, marking a 34% year-on-year increase from 2.97 crore passengers in FY 2024–25.
Rapid Expansion Since Launch
Launched in February 2019 on the New Delhi–Varanasi route, Vande Bharat Express has rapidly evolved into a nationwide network, redefining premium rail travel in India.
The New Delhi–Varanasi route continues to be the busiest, serving over 73 lakh passengers to date.
Key High-Demand Routes
Other major routes witnessing strong traction include:
- New Delhi–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra: ~56 lakh passengers (key pilgrimage route)
- Secunderabad–Visakhapatnam: 48+ lakh passengers
- Chennai (Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. MGR Central)–Mysuru: 36+ lakh passengers
These figures reflect growing demand across religious, business, and leisure travel segments.
Introduction of Sleeper Services
Further expanding long-distance connectivity, Indian Railways introduced the Vande Bharat Sleeper service in January 2026 between West Bengal and Assam.
In just the first three months:
- 1.21 lakh passengers travelled
- Across 119 trips
- With an occupancy rate exceeding 100%
This highlights strong demand for overnight premium rail travel.
Transforming Rail Travel in India
The Vande Bharat Express has become a symbol of modernisation in Indian Railways, offering:
- Faster travel times
- Enhanced passenger comfort
- Improved onboard services
With rising adoption and expanding routes, the service continues to play a key role in strengthening regional connectivity and boosting domestic tourism.
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