Bhavnagar, Gujarat: Union Minister for Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, officially flagged off the Bhavnagar-Ayodhya Weekly Express, along with two other major express trains — Rewa-Pune (Hadapsar) Express and Jabalpur-Raipur Express — at a grand ceremony held in Bhavnagar. This milestone event was attended by several Union Ministers, MLAs, local officials, and citizens, emphasizing the Centre’s strong focus on modernizing rail infrastructure and enhancing connectivity across cultural and economic regions.
Bridging Devotion and Development: The Bhavnagar-Ayodhya Express
The Bhavnagar-Ayodhya Weekly Express was launched with a strong cultural and spiritual symbolism. Union Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the new train will act as a vital bridge connecting the energy and enterprise of Bhavnagar with the devotion and sanctity of Ayodhya. The route is expected to significantly boost religious tourism, cultural unity, and regional commerce.
Minister of State Smt. Nimuben Bambhaniya described the train as “a bridge connecting Bhavnagar’s energy with Ayodhya’s devotion,” adding that it will benefit not only Bhavnagar but also neighboring districts.
Revolutionizing Indian Railways: Three New Train Services Flagged Off
In addition to the Bhavnagar-Ayodhya Express, the Railway Minister also flagged off:
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Rewa-Pune (Hadapsar) Express: Connecting the industrial hub of Pune with cities like Rewa, Jabalpur, Satna, and Maihar, this train is expected to provide a lifeline to the tribal regions by boosting economic opportunities and improving accessibility.
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Jabalpur-Raipur Express: This new express service further strengthens east-west connectivity, fostering better mobility for citizens and supporting trade corridors in Central India.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai joined the ceremony virtually, appreciating the Centre’s commitment to infrastructure-led growth.
Bold Infrastructure Announcements for Bhavnagar and Gujarat
In a series of forward-looking announcements, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw declared multiple infrastructure and terminal projects for Bhavnagar and nearby areas:
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Two new railway terminals and a port container terminal in Bhavnagar.
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A daily Porbandar-Rajkot passenger train.
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New coach maintenance facility at Ranavav station.
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Saradiya-Wansjaliya railway line and Bhadrakali Gate flyover in Porbandar.
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Two Gati Shakti cargo terminals to facilitate freight and logistics movement.
Highlighting the country’s rail modernization, the minister said that 34,000 km of new railway lines have been built in the last 11 years — an average of 12 km/day — marking a historic transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Passenger-Centric Innovations: Amrit Bharat and Bullet Trains
Shri Vaishnaw also spoke about the rollout of the Amrit Bharat Trains, a cost-effective alternative to the Vande Bharat series with similar modern facilities but lower ticket prices. Nearly eight such trains are already operational.
Additionally, he reaffirmed that India’s first bullet train between Mumbai and Ahmedabad is nearing completion, with travel time expected to reduce to just 2 hours and 7 minutes, marking a monumental leap in India’s high-speed rail capabilities.
Voices from the Dais: Leaders Echo Support and Gratitude
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya praised the transformative vision of PM Modi, stating that railway development is a pillar of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). He highlighted that citizens now enjoy timely, advanced rail services and that trains like the Bhavnagar-Ayodhya Express offer spiritual and emotional connectivity, particularly for the people of Saurashtra — a land steeped in spiritual legacy.
Smt. Nimuben Bambhaniya extended heartfelt thanks to the Railway Minister, noting that this new train is not just a mode of transport but a cultural and spiritual enabler for the region.
Community and Administrative Participation
The event saw robust participation from key administrative figures and community leaders, including:
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MLAs: Shri Arjunbhai Modhwadia, Shri Jitubhai Vaghani, Smt. Sejalben Pandya, Shri Gautambhai Chauhan, and Shri Bhikhabhai Bariya
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Spiritual leaders: Mahant Shri Shambhunathji Tundiya, Shri Shivabhai Gohil
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Officials: Mayor Shri Bharatbhai Barad, District Collector Dr. Manish Kumar Bansal, Commissioner Shri N.K. Meena, DDO Shri Hanul Chaudhary, Regional Commissioner Shri Dhaval Pandya, and SP Shri Harshad Patel
Their presence demonstrated the collective enthusiasm and community support for these railway initiatives.
Conclusion: A Step Toward a Modern, Connected India
The launch of the Bhavnagar-Ayodhya Weekly Express and associated rail services marks a significant stride toward achieving the government’s vision of a New India. These projects not only enhance physical connectivity but also strengthen the emotional, spiritual, and economic fabric of the nation. With continued investments in infrastructure, technology, and people-centric policies, Indian Railways is truly becoming a symbol of progress, pride, and unity.
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