PM Modi unveils 2nd Vande Bharat Express and Eastern DFC segment in Varanasi

New Delhi: In a dynamic two-day visit to Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a series of transformational initiatives, reaffirming his commitment towards the city’s development. On the inauguration day, he inaugurated a myriad of projects including the Kanyakumari-Varanasi Tamil Sangamam train and unveiled translations of classic Tamil literature in multiple languages and Braille. Connecting with the community, the Prime Minister participated in the Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra, interacting with beneficiaries of various government schemes.

The second day of his visit promises even more speed as PM Modi is set to launch the second Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express, a high-speed wonder train decked out in saffron colours. The train has advanced features like onboard Wi-Fi infotainment, GPS-based passenger information system, bio-vacuum toilets and luxurious interiors. Vande Bharat Express, scheduled to commence regular operations on December 20, 2023, is set to enhance connectivity between Varanasi and New Delhi, passing through major stations like Prayagraj, Kanpur Central and Aligarh.

Along with this, Prime Minister will inaugurate an important section of the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) connecting Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction to New Bhaupur Junction. Built at a cost of ₹10,903 crore, the corridor strategically connects the coal fields of West Bengal and Jharkhand with power plants in northern India, thereby boosting economic growth and logistics efficiency.

Adding a touch of cultural enrichment to the yatra, PM Modi will also participate in the village edition of the Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra and inaugurate the Swaraveda Mahamandir in Varanasi. The multi-dimensional approach of infrastructure development, high-speed connectivity and cultural initiatives underlines the government’s commitment to promote a ‘developed’ India by 2047, as reiterated by the Prime Minister during his address at the Developed India Sankalp Yatra programme. This visit represents a visionary step towards a developed and interconnected India.