Mon Sep 16 14:01:25 UTC 2024: ## “Namo Bharat” Rapid Rail Inaugurated, Connecting Bhuj and Ahmedabad

**Bhuj, Gujarat:** The Railway Ministry has unveiled the “Namo Bharat” Rapid Rail, formerly known as the Bhuj-Ahmedabad Vande Metro, just hours before its inaugural run on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually flag off the service from Bhuj railway station at 4:15 p.m. while physically present in Ahmedabad.

This new intercity rail service covers a 359 km distance between Bhuj and Ahmedabad in 5 hours and 45 minutes, with nine stops along the route. Regular public service will commence on September 17 from Ahmedabad, with a total journey cost of ₹455.

The Ministry emphasized the “Namo Bharat” trains’ unique ability to connect the heart of Ahmedabad with its surrounding cities, unlike other metros which primarily serve shorter distances. The 12-coach train boasts a capacity of 1,150 passengers and boasts innovative features including ergonomically designed seats, fully air-conditioned cabins, modular interiors, and ejector-based vacuum evacuation toilets, a significant upgrade from traditional suburban trains and metro coaches.

The “Namo Bharat” Rapid Rail promises faster journeys between mid-distance cities, thanks to rapid acceleration and deceleration, and eliminating turnaround time with driving cabs at both ends.

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