India’s railway network has always been at the forefront of transportation infrastructure, connecting cities and regions across the vast subcontinent. In another remarkable development, starting May 20, 2023, Odisha will witness the inauguration of its very first Vande Bharat Express.
This highly anticipated train service is set to operate between the sacred city of Puri in Odisha and the bustling metropolis of Howrah in West Bengal, traversing multiple districts in these two states.
Route and Duration
The Vande Bharat Express will traverse a 500-kilometer route, covering the distance between Puri and Howrah in a brief six and a half hours. It’s important to note that this impressive journey time includes stops at seven distinct stations along the way.
These stations are strategically located in various districts, including Khorda, Cuttack, Jaipur, Bhadrak, and Malasore in Odisha. In West Bengal, the train will make halts at the districts of Paschim Medinipur and Purba Medinipur.
Frequency & Timing:
The Puri-Howrah Vande Bharat Express is designed to operate daily, except for Thursdays, ensuring consistent and frequent service for passengers. With such regularity, travelers can rely on this Express train to establish a fast and efficient connection between Puri and Howrah, facilitating hassle-free travel and a streamlined commuting experience.
Departing from Howrah at 6.10 am, the train will reach Puri at 12.35 pm. In the return direction, it will depart Puri at 1.50 pm and arrive at Howrah at 8.30 pm. With these well-timed departures and arrivals, passengers can plan their journeys conveniently, making the most of their travel experience.
Fare
Passengers can choose between two types of coaches on the Vande Bharat Express: AC chair and Executive chair Car. For the Puri-Howrah route, the fare for an AC chair is Rs 1,430, which includes a catering charge of Rs 328. The fare for an Executive chair Car is Rs 2,615, including a catering charge of Rs 389.
On the Howrah-Puri route, the AC chair fare is Rs 1,265, with a catering charge of Rs 162, while the Executive chair Car fare is Rs 2,420, including a catering charge of Rs 195. Passengers have the option to choose iFood or opt for the ‘No Food Option’, where the catering charge will not be added to the fare.
How to Book Howrah-Puri Vande Bharat Express?
Tickets for the Howrah-Puri Vande Bharat Express can be booked both online and offline. Passengers can visit the official website of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) or use the app to reserve their seats.
Offline bookings can be made at the Passenger Reservation System (PRS). It’s important to note that only passengers with confirmed tickets will be allowed to board the train, ensuring a smooth and organized travel experience.
Enhanced Commuting Experience
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express brings with it a myriad of benefits for commuters. With its rapid speed and punctuality, this train service promises a comfortable journey, allowing passengers to reach their destinations quickly and effortlessly.
The Vande Bharat Express aims to redefine the standards of train travel, prioritizing the convenience and satisfaction of its passengers.
Access to Tourist Destinations
Apart from its utility for daily commuters, the Vande Bharat Express also offers a gateway to numerous popular tourist destinations in the region. Travelers can now conveniently access significant landmarks such as the renowned Puri Jagannath Temple, the serene Puri Beach, the magnificent Konark Temple, the vibrant art village of Raghurajpur, and the picturesque Chilika Lake in Odisha.
In West Bengal, the train’s route includes stops near the prestigious Belur Math, the enchanting Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, and the iconic Howrah Bridge.
Proximity to Capital Cities
Puri, the holy city of Odisha, is located a mere 62 kilometers away from Bhubaneshwar, the state capital. Similarly, Howrah, a bustling city in West Bengal, lies approximately 16 kilometers from Kolkata, the capital of the state.
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express service ensures swift connectivity between these important points, making travel between them convenient and time-saving. Now, travelers can explore the beauty and culture of these regions without the stress of navigating through the busy capital cities.
Conclusion
The commencement of Odisha’s first Vande Bharat Express marks a significant milestone in the region’s transportation sector. This high-speed train service between Puri and Howrah promises to revolutionize travel, providing a fast, comfortable, and efficient mode of transportation for both commuters and tourists.
The seamless connectivity, reduced travel time, and enhanced accessibility to various destinations ensure a hassle-free experience, allowing individuals to explore the diverse wonders of Odisha and West Bengal effortlessly.
FAQs
1. How often will the Vande Bharat Express operate?
The Vande Bharat Express will operate daily, except for Thursdays, ensuring consistent service for passengers.
2. How long is the journey time between Puri and Howrah?
The journey between Puri and Howrah is completed in approximately six and a half hours, including stops at seven stations along the way.
3. Which districts will the train halt in Odisha?
The train will make stops at Khorda, Cuttack, Jaipur, Bhadrak, and Malasore districts in Odisha.
4. Can the Vande Bharat Express facilitate easy access to tourist destinations?
Absolutely! The train provides easier access to popular tourist destinations such as the Puri Jagannath Temple, Konark Temple, Chilika Lake, Belur Math, and the Indian Botanic Garden.
5. How far is Puri from Bhubaneshwar and Howrah from Kolkata?
Puri is located 62 kilometers away from Bhubaneshwar, while Howrah is approximately 16 kilometers from Kolkata, ensuring close proximity between the cities.
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