Many Indian states have welcomed the introduction of the Vande Bharat train, which has gained immense popularity.
Several Chief Ministers have expressed interest in having this train operate in their respective states.
However, the primary concern surrounding the Vande Bharat train is its high fare, making it inaccessible for the common people.
In response to this issue, the government is in the process of launching a new train service known as the Vande Ordinary Train, aimed at providing cost-effective luxury travel options, particularly for migrant laborers.
The upcoming Vande Bharat trains are designed to cater to the needs of the general public by offering more affordable fares without compromising on luxury amenities.
These trains will consist of a total of 24 coaches, requiring two engines to operate efficiently.
The Vande Ordinary Trains are currently under construction at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, with an estimated cost of around Rs 65 crore.
While there’s no official confirmation on the launch date, it is anticipated to commence by the end of this year.
These trains will significantly reduce travel costs while maintaining the high-quality services found in Vande Bharat trains.
Their design specifically targets economically disadvantaged individuals and aims to improve connectivity, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha. The primary objective is to simplify travel for migrant laborers and other individuals.
Fare Comparison
The Vande Ordinary Train will offer the same amenities as the Vande Bharat, with a similar operating speed.
All coaches will be second class, ensuring affordability. The fare for Vande Bharat Express is approximately 18 percent higher than that of the Shatabdi Express.
For instance, the chair car fare for Vande Bharat Express between Delhi and Dehradun is Rs 1,065, while the Shatabdi Express fare is Rs 905.
Similarly, the second-class fare for Jan Shatabdi Express between Delhi and Dehradun is Rs 165.
Based on this comparison, it is expected that the fare for Vande Ordinary Train could be as low as Rs 190, making luxury travel accessible to a broader audience.
