PM Narendra Modi Flags Off Banaras–Pune Amrit Bharat Express from Varanasi
Pune/Varanasi, 28th April 2026: The Banaras–Hadapsar (Pune) Amrit Bharat Express was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday and departed from Varanasi, marking the launch of a new daily long-distance service connecting Uttar Pradesh with Maharashtra via Madhya Pradesh.
The non-AC train service has been introduced for low- and middle-income passengers, featuring General and Sleeper class coaches along with Divyangjan-friendly facilities and a pantry. Railway officials stated that the train incorporates upgraded safety systems, including CCTV surveillance, emergency talk-back mechanisms, aerosol-based fire suppression, and crashworthy coach design. The train also uses push-pull locomotive technology for improved operational efficiency.
Passenger amenities include improved seating and berths, enhanced lighting, mobile charging points with USB ports, ergonomic ladders, better-designed toilets, and fully sealed gangways aimed at improving travel comfort and safety.
The Banaras–Hadapsar Amrit Bharat Express will complete its journey in approximately 30 hours and halt at 18 stations en route, including Prayagraj, Jhansi, Bhopal (Rani Kamlapati), Itarsi, Bhusaval, Jalgaon, Manmad, Kopargaon, Daund, before terminating at Hadapsar in Pune.
The service provides direct rail connectivity between eastern Uttar Pradesh and western Maharashtra, linking major population centres and religious destinations such as Kashi Vishwanath Dham and the Shirdi region.
According to railway officials, the train is expected to cater to daily passengers, migrant workers, students, and pilgrims travelling between the two states by offering a direct route without the need for interchanges.
