Patna: A new high-speed rail service linking Patna and New Delhi is set to launch this month, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi due to inaugurate the Amrit Bharat Express on July 18 via video conferencing. Regular services are scheduled to begin two days later, on July 20.
Operated under the Danapur Railway Division, the Amrit Bharat Express promises a faster and more comfortable travel option for passengers seeking an affordable upgrade. The train will cover the 1,000 km journey between Patna and Delhi in just 10 hours, running at an average speed of 130 km/h.
Enhanced travel experience without AC coaches
While the Amrit Bharat Express will not feature air-conditioned coaches, it will be equipped with a range of modern facilities comparable to those found in Vande Bharat trains. The train will comprise general and sleeper class coaches, with sleeper fares expected to be 15–17% higher than those of conventional express services. A sleeper ticket between Patna and Delhi is estimated to cost around Rs 1,065.
Painted in a distinctive orange and grey livery, the train’s design aims to reflect a modern, premium feel despite its non-AC classification.
Onboard amenities and safety features
The coaches will include LED lighting, information display boards, and charging points near every seat. Additional features include:
- Bio-vacuum toilets
- Sensor-activated water taps
- CCTV cameras for monitoring hygiene and security
- Seamless inter-coach access
These upgrades are intended to offer a higher standard of travel for non-AC passengers, combining speed, comfort and safety.
Key stops and regional impact
The train will halt at approximately 12 stations en route, including Ara, Buxar, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction (DDU), Mirzapur, Prayagraj, Kanpur Central and Etawah. It is expected to improve regional connectivity and provide easier access to industrial hubs in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
