Poll-bound Tamil Nadu, West Bengal to get three Amrit Bharat weekly trains as rail connectivity expands
Poll-bound Tamil Nadu, West Bengal to get three Amrit Bharat weekly trains as the Indian Railways moves to strengthen long-distance rail connectivity between eastern and southern India ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. The decision comes at a time when passenger demand on these routes has been steadily rising, especially among migrant workers, daily travellers, and families who rely on affordable long-distance train services.
The Railway Board has approved the introduction of three new Amrit Bharat Express trains, which will run weekly and connect key cities in Tamil Nadu with major destinations in West Bengal. These services are expected to begin operations in mid-January, marking a significant step in easing congestion on some of the busiest rail corridors in the country.
The Amrit Bharat Express is a non-air-conditioned train designed to offer modern travel comfort at affordable fares. While it does not have AC coaches, it provides upgraded interiors, better seating, improved safety features, and enhanced passenger amenities, making it a preferred option for long journeys.
Poll-bound Tamil Nadu, West Bengal to get three Amrit Bharat weekly trains bringing relief to passengers
Poll-bound Tamil Nadu, West Bengal to get three Amrit Bharat weekly trains has been a long-standing demand from passengers travelling between the two regions. Tamil Nadu attracts a large number of workers and students from West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and the northeastern states. For years, travellers have complained about limited seat availability, long waiting lists, and overcrowded coaches, especially during festival seasons.
With the approval of these new services, Indian Railways aims to reduce pressure on existing trains running on the Chennai Howrah and Chennai–Shalimar routes, which are among the most congested rail sections in India. The addition of new weekly services will offer passengers more travel options and better planning flexibility.
According to official railway sources, the three Amrit Bharat Express trains will operate on the following routes:
Tambaram – Santragachi Amrit Bharat Express
Tiruchirapalli–New Jalpaiguri Amrit Bharat Express
Nagercoil–New Jalpaiguri Amrit Bharat Express
Each train will be equipped with eight sleeper coaches, eleven second-class sitting coaches, a disabled-friendly coach, and a pantry car, ensuring basic comfort for long-distance travellers.
The Tambaram–Santragachi service will connect Chennai’s suburban rail hub with a major rail terminal near Kolkata, improving access for passengers from northern Tamil Nadu. The Tiruchirapalli and Nagercoil services will link central and southern Tamil Nadu directly with northern West Bengal, reducing the need for multiple train changes.
Poll-bound Tamil Nadu, West Bengal to get three Amrit Bharat weekly trains boosting regional links
Poll-bound Tamil Nadu, West Bengal to get three Amrit Bharat weekly trains is also expected to improve connectivity beyond just the two states. The New Jalpaiguri station, which serves as a gateway to the northeastern region, will benefit greatly from the new services. Passengers travelling to Sikkim, which still does not have a railway line, will find it easier to reach their destination through New Jalpaiguri.
These trains are part of a wider railway expansion plan that includes both Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat services. Several of these new trains are scheduled to originate from Assam and West Bengal, connecting the northeastern and eastern regions with Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and other southern states.
In Tamil Nadu, rail officials have also confirmed plans for a new Vande Bharat Express between Chennai Egmore and Rameswaram, expected to be launched later in January. This move highlights the Railways’ focus on improving both premium and affordable train services across the state.
The introduction of the Amrit Bharat trains is expected to benefit thousands of passengers, particularly migrant workers who often travel at short notice during holidays and emergencies. With better availability and improved facilities, these services aim to make long-distance train travel more reliable and comfortable. Also Read: Railways Approves Three Amrit Bharat Express Trains from Tamil Nadu
Conclusion
The launch of three new Amrit Bharat Express trains marks a meaningful improvement in rail connectivity between Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. By addressing long-standing passenger concerns and strengthening regional links, the move is expected to ease congestion and support smoother travel across eastern and southern India in the months ahead.
