New Delhi: Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Amrit Bharat Express, linking Brahmapur in Odisha to Udhna in Gujarat, marking a major step in affordable, long-distance rail connectivity for central and western India. The inaugural flagged off on September 27, 2025, is backed by developmental plans and major infrastructure upgrades at Surat and Udhna railway stations.
Amrit Bharat Express: Features and Coverage
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The new generation train features modern ergonomic seating, fully connected coaches for ease of movement, and a twin-engine configuration for higher safety and reliability.
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Amrit Bharat Express offers affordable fares—₹495 (General class) and ₹795 (Non-AC sleeper)—making it accessible for broad segments of passengers.
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Covering 1,710 km, it links 22 districts across 5 states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha—serving business hubs, textile centers, and religious sites like Maa Tara Tarini Shaktipeeth.
Route and Schedule Details
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The train is operated by Indian Railways as a weekly service (Train numbers 19021/19022), with regular departures from Udhna every Sunday and from Brahmapur every Monday.
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Major stops include Udhna, Bhusaval, Nagpur, Raipur, Durg, Gondia, Titlagarh, Rayagada, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam Road, and Brahmapur.
Passenger and State Benefits
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Direct connectivity supports textile and diamond trade in Surat, entrepreneurial growth, and provides pilgrims convenient access to Odisha’s cultural destinations.
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The service opens new avenues for youth and local businesses along the route, enhances regional development, and strengthens ties between eastern, central, and western India.
Modernization of Railway Stations and Bullet Train Project
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Surat and Udhna stations are being revamped with expanded platforms, pit lines, and advanced passenger amenities as part of Indian Railways’ 50-year Master Plan.
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Surat’s High-Speed Rail Station has completed civil works and is progressing with finishing utilities for India’s bullet train corridor. Modern roller bearings, composite sleepers, and vibration dampers are integral to the tracks, promising safer, quieter, and low-maintenance bullet train operations.
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The progress will transform regional connectivity, making Mumbai just one hour from Surat and creating an economic corridor between Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
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Source: PIB
