Gujarat achieved a notable advancement in its transportation sector on Sunday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated two new train services—the Sabarmati–Veraval Vande Bharat Express and the Valsad–Dahod Express—from Dahod. The newly established routes, introduced by Western Railway, are intended to enhance intra-state rail connectivity and encourage more sustainable transportation methods, aligning with India’s overarching climate and development objectives.
Set to commence full operations on May 27, these services aim not only to reduce travel time but also to improve passenger comfort and facilitate economic integration across vital regions of the state. This dual launch signifies an ongoing dedication to providing modern, inclusive, and environmentally friendly infrastructure—an approach that is increasingly pivotal to India’s mobility mission.
The Sabarmati–Veraval Vande Bharat Express, operating under train numbers 26901 and 26902, will run six days a week, excluding Thursdays. It is scheduled to depart from Sabarmati at 5.25 am and arrive at Veraval by 12.25 pm. The return journey will commence at 2.40 pm from Veraval, concluding at Sabarmati by 9.35 pm. The train will stop at several key stations, including Viramgam, Surendranagar, Wankaner, Rajkot, and Junagadh. Equipped with fully air-conditioned Chair Car and Executive Chair Car coaches, this premium service is designed to provide a seamless and high-speed travel experience for tourists, pilgrims, and business travelers visiting Gujarat’s coastal and historical sites.
The second addition to the state’s rail network—the Valsad–Dahod Express—addresses a long-standing demand for improved east-west connectivity across southern and central Gujarat. The inaugural Superfast Special (train number 09011) made its first journey from Valsad at 11.30 am on Sunday, arriving in Dahod at 5.25 pm.
Starting May 27, regular services will run daily.The train (numbers 19011/19012) is scheduled to depart from Valsad at 5:15 am and arrive in Dahod by 11:05 am. The return journey will leave Dahod at 11:55 am, reaching Valsad by 8:05 pm. This route features significant stops at Bilimora, Navsari, Surat, Ankleshwar, Bharuch, Miyagam Karjan, Vadodara, Samlaya, Derol, Godhra, Piplod, and Limkheda. The train will provide a combination of AC Chair Car, second-class seating, and general coaches to cater to passengers from various economic backgrounds.
These new services represent more than mere additions to the schedule—they signify a transition towards cleaner and more efficient public transportation systems. As India aims for net-zero carbon emissions and strives to move away from private and polluting travel options, modern rail services like these are essential measures. They not only alleviate road congestion and lower emissions but also promote greater affordability, accessibility, and inclusivity in both urban and rural mobility.
With ticket reservations now available through the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website and Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters, both services are anticipated to experience significant uptake, particularly among daily commuters, small business owners, and leisure travelers. The Prime Minister’s inauguration occurs at a pivotal moment when India is rethinking its transportation narrative—not solely in terms of speed and efficiency but also with a deliberate focus on sustainability, social equity, and regional empowerment.
The effective incorporation of these principles into large-scale initiatives such as the new Gujarat train services could lead to a future where public infrastructure benefits both the populace and the environment.
