Patna: Bihar is set to welcome its first Vande Metro, a landmark in regional rail connectivity and the state’s inaugural Vande Metro service. The 16-coach rake of the high-speed train arrived in Patna on Sunday, ahead of its official flag-off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 24 in Jhanjharpur, Madhubani district.
This development marks the debut of India’s second Vande Metro, with the new route connecting Jaynagar to Patna via key junctions including Samastipur, Barauni, Mokama, and Bakhtiyarpur. The arrival of the train sparked visible excitement among railway personnel and residents, who gathered at the Rajendra Nagar Coaching Complex for a glimpse of the ultramodern rake.
Designed for a maximum speed of 130 km/h, the train is expected to cut travel time between Jaynagar and Patna from the current 6–7 hours to just 4.5–5 hours. Railway officials noted that the train is capable of seating over 1,000 passengers, with additional standing room for more than 2,000—mirroring the convenience and capacity of urban metro systems.
Mechanical testing of the rake is currently underway, with a two-day trial scheduled along the Jaynagar–Patna corridor. The East Central Railway has appointed specialised teams of loco pilots and support staff to ensure a successful test run ahead of the launch.
In addition to the Vande Metro, Prime Minister Modi is expected to inaugurate several major railway projects during the Jhanjharpur event. These include the Amrit Bharat train and two new long-distance passenger trains connecting Saharsa to Mumbai.
Speculation continues around the fare structure of the Vande Metro, although officials have hinted that ticket prices will remain lower than comparable express services. Final details on the average speed and fare are anticipated within the next few days following trial assessments.
With advanced features and time-saving efficiency, the Vande Metro is poised to transform travel between North Bihar and the capital—bringing modern rail infrastructure a step closer to the state’s growing commuter population.
