Vande Bharat Express between Tatanagar-Puri soon, to slash travel time to less than 8 hours

The Indian Railways is preparing to introduce a new Vande Bharat Express train connecting Tatanagar in Jharkhand with Puri in Odisha, aiming to improve regional transport infrastructure and boost tourism in both states. 

The semi-high-speed train will offer a faster and more comfortable alternative to existing rail options, with improved amenities and reduced travel time.

Timings, Route and Schedule

The proposed Tatanagar-Puri Vande Bharat Express is expected to operate six days a week, excluding Thursdays. The train will depart from Tatanagar at 6:10 AM and reach Puri by 2:10 PM. The return leg will start from Puri at 2:40 PM and conclude in Tatanagar by 10:40 PM. Covering a distance of 514 km, the journey will take approximately 8 hours. 

The route includes important stoppages at Jhargram, Ghatsila, Balasore, Bhadrak, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Khurda Road, ensuring connectivity between major cities and smaller towns along the way.

Coach Composition and Onboard Facilities

The train will consist of eight coaches featuring two classes of seating, AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car. Designed to run at speeds up to 160 kmph, the Tatanagar-Puri Vande Bharat Express will include modern passenger facilities such as improved air conditioning, automatic doors, infotainment systems, and bio-vacuum toilets. These features aim to deliver a more pleasant and efficient travel experience.

Fare Structure

As per current estimates, the fare for a journey in the AC Chair Car will be approximately Rs 1,500, while the Executive Chair Car is expected to cost around Rs 2,400. These options are tailored to cater to a range of passenger preferences and budgets.

Impact on Travel and Tourism

The new Vande Bharat service is anticipated to bolster tourism and local economies in both Jharkhand and Odisha. Travellers from Tatanagar and nearby areas will find it easier to reach Puri, a key hub for both pilgrimage and tourism. The improved connectivity is likely to encourage short-term and weekend travel, contributing to growth in tourism and allied sectors.