Modern Train, Old Habits: Vande Bharat’s Automatic Doors Catch Passengers Unaware in Muzaffarpur

Muzaffarpur: The newly operational Vande Bharat Express on the Muzaffarpur-Champaran route has brought a new level of comfort, speed, and efficiency to Bihar’s railway passengers. But it also comes with a catch — its automatic doors and strict stoppage rules are catching unaware passengers off guard.

On Sunday, the first day of regular operations for Train No. 26502 Vande Bharat Express, multiple passengers found themselves trapped onboard after mistakenly entering the train to drop off friends or family.

A Costly Mistake for the Curious and the Caring

Ravindra Kumar, a resident of Motihari, recounted his experience:

“I had come to drop off a relative with a valid ticket. I stepped into the coach with him just for a minute. But before I knew it, the doors closed and the train started moving. I had no choice but to travel to the next station before I could get off.”

Like Ravindra, several others, unaware of the fully automated door-closing system, were unable to exit when the horn blew and the doors locked. These passengers had to ride to Muzaffarpur Junction and then make alternate arrangements — including boarding other trains like the Saptkranti Express — to return to their intended destinations like Motihari or Bettiah.

Fortunately, TTEs on duty issued only warnings, acknowledging that it was the train’s first day on the route. However, railway officials have urged the public not to enter Vande Bharat coaches unless they are travelling, as this modern train system does not allow for door override or intermediate halts.

Ultra-Modern but Unforgiving

Unlike conventional trains where doors remain open until departure, the Vande Bharat Express employs automatic vacuum-sealed doors that lock after a double-horn signal. Once locked, they remain shut until the next scheduled station. The train strictly adheres to its designated stops and does not halt for emergencies unless officially permitted.

Railway officials say this feature ensures safety, speed, and efficiency, but comes with a steep learning curve for first-time passengers or visitors unfamiliar with the protocol.

Fully Booked Chair Cars, Limited Executive Demand

Despite the hiccups, the train was welcomed with enthusiasm. The seven chair car coaches were fully booked on the inaugural day from Muzaffarpur to Gorakhpur, while only four seats remained vacant in the executive class.

According to IRCTC, about 300 seats were still available in chair cars for Monday (June 23) in both directions, indicating growing awareness but continued demand.

The train features eight coaches — seven Chair Car (CC) and one Executive Class (EC) coach. While executive fares are higher, they include complimentary services such as water bottles, tea, and snacks, billed in advance through the ticket fare.

Timings and Route Performance

Train 26502 Vande Bharat Express departed Gorakhpur on time and reached Muzaffarpur Junction at 10:22 a.m., albeit slightly delayed. After a half-hour halt, it departed for Patna, maintaining schedule for its onward journey.

The return train, 26501, left Patna on time and reached Muzaffarpur 15 minutes early, much to the satisfaction of passengers.

Public Advisory: Know Before You Board

The incident serves as a public advisory for those accompanying passengers to Vande Bharat trains: do not enter the coach unless you’re travelling. The train’s high-speed, door automation, and punctuality make it a world-class travel option — but they also mean no leeway for last-minute boarding or disembarkation.