Patna: The much-anticipated Patna-Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express is finally ready to hit the tracks, with the Railways Board issuing a formal notification approving its introduction. The premium semi-high-speed service is likely to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his rally in Siwan on Friday, adding a significant boost to rail connectivity in North Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
According to the notification issued by the Railway Board on June 18, the Patliputra-Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express will operate six days a week, excluding Saturdays. The new route will enhance connectivity between key cities and towns, including Muzaffarpur, Motihari, and Bettiah, providing passengers with faster and more comfortable travel options.
Timings and Route Details
From Gorakhpur, the train (26502) will depart at 5:40 AM and arrive at Patliputra at 12:45 PM, making commercial stops at:
- Kaptanganj (06:24–06:26)
- Paniyahawa (07:05)
- Bagaha (07:30–07:32)
- Narkatiaganj (08:03–08:05)
- Bettiah (08:35–08:37)
- Sugauli (08:50–08:52)
- Bapudham Motihari (09:08–09:10)
- Muzaffarpur (10:50–10:55)
- Hajipur (11:40–11:42)
The return service from Patliputra (26501) will depart at 3:30 PM and reach Gorakhpur at 10:30 PM, halting at the same intermediate stations.
The Vande Bharat Express will be maintained at Gorakhpur and is expected to significantly reduce travel time along this route, offering a modern, fast, and efficient alternative to conventional services.
A Strategic Political and Infrastructure Push
The inauguration of the train, expected to be flagged off by the Prime Minister, is likely to be a major political and infrastructural announcement ahead of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025. The train’s route, cutting across significant constituencies, is seen as a move to bolster development narratives in the region.
Railway officials have been directed to ensure wide publicity of the service and facilitate its operational rollout at the earliest convenient date. An inaugural special run may precede regular service.
This marks the second Vande Bharat Express connecting Bihar, further embedding the state into India’s expanding network of modern rail transport.
