TFP Bureau, Raipur, September 16, 2024: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated six new Vande Bharat Express trains on Monday, in a grand event held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Among the newly launched trains, Chhattisgarh received its own Vande Bharat Express service, connecting Durg to Visakhapatnam, significantly reducing travel time.
At Raipur Railway Station, a special program was held to mark the occasion, with Governor Shri Ramen Deka attending as the chief guest. Speaking at the event, Governor Deka lauded the Vande Bharat Express as a symbol of India’s progress in modern railways, emphasizing its role in enhancing travel efficiency.
“The Vande Bharat Express will cut the journey between Durg and Visakhapatnam to just eight hours, compared to the 11 hours taken by other trains. This train will not only save time but also offer superior comfort and convenience,” Deka said.
He highlighted the significance of Vande Bharat as a fully domestically manufactured train, representing the “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives. “This is a powerful demonstration of India’s technological advancement and self-reliance,” he added.
Governor Deka further noted that the launch of this train marks another milestone in Chhattisgarh’s history. He underscored its potential to boost tourism, trade, healthcare, and education between Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh, fostering economic growth and creating new employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Shri Tokhan Sahu, praised the new rail service as a vital link between Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh. He mentioned that over Rs 20,000 crore has been allocated for the development of rail infrastructure in Chhattisgarh, indicating a significant boost for the state’s connectivity.
Raipur MP Shri Brijmohan Agrawal described the Vande Bharat Express as a major gift to the people of Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Odisha. He highlighted the rapid progress of the railway sector in the state and its positive impact on the region’s development.
Governor Deka later boarded the Vande Bharat Express, interacting with passengers and offering his congratulations. Several prominent figures, including Durg MP Shri Vijay Baghel, MLA Shri Rajesh Munat, and Railway Division officials, were also present at the event, celebrating the launch of the new high-speed train service.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from DRM Raipur Shri Sanjeev Kumar, who expressed gratitude to all participants and dignitaries.
