Union Railway Minister Flags Off Bhavnagar–Ayodhya Weekly Express, Connecting Culture and Devotion.
Bhavnagar:
In a major push toward strengthening rail connectivity and promoting cultural tourism, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today flagged off the much-awaited Bhavnagar–Ayodhya Weekly Express from Bhavnagar, Gujarat. The ceremony also marked the launch of two other express trains — Rewa–Pune (Hadapsar) Express and Jabalpur–Raipur Express — making it a significant day for Indian Railways.
The event was graced by Union Minister for Labour, Youth Affairs & Sports Dr. Mansukhbhai Mandaviya, and Minister of State for Consumer Affairs Nimuben Bambhaniya, along with senior railway officials and thousands of enthusiastic citizens. Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh joined the occasion virtually.
Bhavnagar–Ayodhya Express: A Cultural Bridge
Addressing the public, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the Bhavnagar–Ayodhya Express will act as a bridge between Bhavnagar’s industrial and spiritual spirit and Ayodhya’s rich religious heritage.
“This is not just a train service; it is a bond between two regions rooted in culture and devotion. It will significantly boost tourism, pilgrimage, and trade,” Vaishnaw stated.
Highlighting the unprecedented transformation of Indian Railways under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Minister shared that:
- Over 34,000 km of new railway lines have been laid in the last 11 years — 12 km per day on average.
- 1,300 railway stations are currently under redevelopment — forming the world’s largest station modernization program.
- Unlike global practices, India continues train operations even during station upgrades to minimize public inconvenience.
He also announced major infrastructure projects for Bhavnagar, including:
- Two new railway terminals
- A port container terminal
- A coach maintenance facility at Ranavav
- Saradiya-Wansjaliya railway line
- Bhadrakali Gate flyover in Porbandar
- Two new Gati Shakti cargo terminals
In addition, a new daily Porbandar–Rajkot train service will be launched soon.
Bullet Train and Amrit Bharat Services
The Railway Minister also provided an update on India’s first bullet train project between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, which will reduce travel time to just 2 hours and 7 minutes. The project is progressing at record speed.
He introduced the Amrit Bharat Express, a new class of semi-premium trains with Vande Bharat-like comfort at affordable fares. Eight such trains have already begun operations.
Voices of Support from Central Ministers
Union Minister Dr. Mansukhbhai Mandaviya praised the initiative, saying:
“India is on the path of rapid development. The transformation in the railways is one of the most visible symbols of this new India. The Bhavnagar–Ayodhya train will give devotees from Saurashtra a direct connection to Ram Janmabhoomi.”
Minister of State Nimuben Bambhaniya echoed the sentiment:
“This train connects Bhavnagar’s vibrant energy with Ayodhya’s sacred devotion. It’s a gift to the people of Bhavnagar and surrounding districts.”
The launch event saw the presence of key leaders including:
- MLAs Arjunbhai Modhwadia, Jitubhai Vaghani, Sejalben Pandya, Gautambhai Chauhan, and Bhikhabhai Bariya
- Religious figure Mahant Shambhunathji Tundiya
- Mayor Bharatbhai Barad, District Collector Dr. Manish Kumar Bansal, Commissioner N.K. Meena, and other senior officials
A large number of citizens gathered at the station to celebrate the new train service, with cultural performances and traditional greetings marking the launch.
The launch of the Bhavnagar–Ayodhya Weekly Express not only fulfills a long-standing public demand but also strengthens India’s vision of railway-led regional development, religious tourism, and national integration.
