From Vande Bharat to Amrit Bharat: How Modi govt’s rail push is transforming Odisha’s connectivity

Odisha is increasingly becoming part of the Indian Railways’ broader push to modernise passenger services, marked by the introduction and expansion of both Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat Express trains across the country. 

The Vande Bharat Express series has been positioned by the government of India as a symbol of a modern and aspirational railway network. These semi-high-speed trains, built with advanced onboard features and designed for faster intercity connectivity, have been implemented on multiple routes nationwide since their rollout.

As of late 2025, Indian Railways operates over 140 Vande Bharat services nationwide, with multiple (six) routes serving Odisha. These trains feature modern onboard facilities and reduced travel times compared to conventional long-distance services. Among the six, key Vande Bharat routes in Odisha include:

Puri-Rourkela Vande Bharat Express
Puri-Howrah Vande Bharat Express
Brahmapur-Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express
Raipur-Visakhapatnam Vande Bharat Express

These services help connect Odisha’s major cultural, industrial and economic centres with neighbouring states, improving mobility for commuters, tourists, and business travellers alike.

Odisha’s First Vande Bharat Express: A Milestone Launch

The Puri-Howrah Vande Bharat Express was the first of its kind to be launched in Odisha. Flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it marked a key milestone in bringing premium rail connectivity to the state. 

The service links Odisha’s heritage city of Puri with Kolkata’s Howrah terminal, passing through major urban nodes such as Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

Amrit Bharat Express: Affordable Modern Long-Distance Travel

To complement the premium Vande Bharat services, Indian Railways launched the Amrit Bharat Express category, which features long-distance trains equipped with modern facilities, high-capacity LHB rake coaches, and enhanced passenger amenities. 

These trains provide a middle ground between premium services and traditional express trains, ensuring enhanced long-distance connectivity at affordable fares.

Amrit Bharat Express in Odisha: Routes & Station Details

Odisha is part of both existing and newly launched Amrit Bharat routes. The service enhances long-distance connectivity for passengers within the state and beyond.

1. Udhna (Surat) – Brahmapur Amrit Bharat Express

Route: Udhna (Surat) ↔ Brahmapur
Scheduled Frequency: Tri-weekly
Key Odisha Stations & Stop Sequence:
Jaleswar
Balasore
Soro
Bhadrak
Cuttack
Bhubaneswar
Khurda Road
Brahmapur

Purpose: Enhances east-west connectivity between Odisha and western India.

2. Malda Town – Bengaluru Amrit Bharat Express

Route: Malda Town ↔ Bengaluru City
Scheduled Frequency: Weekly
Odisha Stations & Stop Sequence:
Jaleswar
Balasore
Soro
Bhadrak
Cuttack
Bhubaneswar
Khurda Road
Berhampur

Purpose: Connects Northern India with Southern India while linking Odisha’s major urban stations and travel hubs.

Moreover, at least six Amrit Bharat Express trains will pass through several stations in Odisha. It includes:

Tambaram–Santragachi
Tiruchirappalli–New Jalpaiguri
Bengaluru–Alipur Duar
Nagercoil–New Jalpaiguri
Bengaluru–Radhikapur
Bengaluru–Balurghat

During their journey, these trains will halt at key stations in Odisha, including Berhampur, Balugaon, Khurda Road, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Jajpur-Keonjhar Road, Bhadrak, and Balasore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to launch the six Amrit Bharat Express trains on January 17 and 18. The rollout will also include the launch of two Vande Bharat sleeper trains.

Broader Rail Modernisation Efforts

Odisha’s integration into expanded Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat networks is part of a larger Indian Railways modernisation initiative under the TAG 2026 (Timetable of Trains 2026) rollout. This includes:

Introduction of over 120 new trains nationally
Speed enhancements for nearly 550 existing services
Emphasis on modern infrastructure, safety upgrades, and passenger comfort
These developments aim to optimise the rail network’s performance, reduce journey times and enhance logistics efficiency.

Station Modernisation Under Amrit Bharat Scheme

In addition to new services, major railway stations in Odisha are being upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme- a nationwide effort to develop modern passenger amenities, improve accessibility and enhance station facilities for long-distance and local travellers alike.

For instance, the Puri Railway Station redevelopment includes upgraded passenger lounges, improved waiting spaces, and accessibility enhancements.

These station upgrades are expected to reduce congestion, improve traveller experiences and attract new ridership across various demographic groups.

The expansion of Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat Express services, combined with station modernisation, places Odisha prominently on the map of India’s railway transformation agenda. As rail connectivity improves with faster, safer and more comfortable services, Odisha stands to benefit economically and socially through enhanced passenger mobility and strengthened links to national corridors.