Passengers traveling between Bhopal and Lucknow will soon have a faster option, as Indian Railways prepares to launch the Vande Bharat Express on the busy route.
The new semi-high-speed train is expected to cut the current 12-hour journey down to just 7 to 8 hours, saving passengers nearly four hours of travel time.
The Bhopal-Lucknow corridor sees high passenger traffic throughout the year, especially during holidays. At present, around 15 indirect trains serve the route. However, these trains are often overcrowded and slow.
The Vande Bharat Express aims to improve the experience with fewer stops, more comfort, and higher speed. The train will cover about 720 kilometers, offering a direct connection between the capitals of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Key stations like Bina, Jhansi, and Kanpur will also be part of the route.
The train will reportedly feature eight chair car coaches, including executive class seating. Ticket prices are expected to be similar to those of Rajdhani and Duronto Express services.
The launch is part of Indian Railways’ broader push to improve connectivity and comfort across major cities.