Patna: Rail travel between Patna and Delhi received a significant boost as Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flagged off the Patna–New Delhi and Darbhanga–Lucknow Amrit Bharat Express trains from Motihari. The launch marks a step forward in improving long-distance connectivity across Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
The Patna–New Delhi Amrit Bharat Express, which begins regular operations on July 31, promises to reduce journey times by at least 20%, with a maximum speed of 130km/h. Modelled on the Vande Bharat Express, the new train aims to provide a more comfortable and convenient experience for passengers, particularly those from non-AC travel classes.
At the Patna Sahib station, local MP Ravi Shankar Prasad ceremonially flagged off the train in person.
Designed for affordability and comfort
Painted in vibrant orange and grey, the train comprises 22 coaches – including 11 general, eight sleeper, one pantry car, and two SLRD coaches. The sleeper coaches accommodate 80 passengers each, while general coaches can seat up to 100. Features such as charging ports, mobile holders, bottle holders, CCTV cameras, and display boards for station updates have been installed throughout. Despite the upgrades, the train remains non-AC to cater to budget travellers.
A key safety addition is the inclusion of bio-toilets, emergency push buttons, a driver-talk system, and surveillance near gates and seats.
Connectivity across key towns
The train will stop at 12 stations between Patna and Delhi, including Ara, Buxar, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction (DDU), Subedarganj, Govindpuri, and Ghaziabad. Scheduled halts range from five to ten minutes.
The Patna–Delhi service will depart Rajendra Nagar daily at 7:45pm, reaching the capital by 1:10pm the following day. The return journey will start from Delhi at 7:10pm and arrive in Patna at 11:45am.
Railway officials believe the new service will benefit not just Bihar but also large parts of Uttar Pradesh by improving mobility and access to key urban centres.
