Raipur, Chhattisgarh: On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flagged off the Durg-Vishakapatnam Vande Bharat Express from Raipur railway station. This new high-speed train is set to transform travel between these two cities, significantly cutting down journey time.

The Vande Bharat Express, which travels at a top speed of 160 km/h, will complete the trip in just eight hours—an improvement over the eleven to twelve hours taken by the previous local trains. The loco pilot, J.D. Navrengay, assured that the train is entirely safe and emphasized its modern features, including automatic door closures that ensure the engine won't start until all doors are securely closed.

"The introduction of the Durg-Vishakapatnam Vande Bharat Express marks a significant advancement. It is a clean, hygienic, and fast train with state-of-the-art facilities," Navrengay said.

Students from local schools were given a special opportunity to ride the train, and their excitement was palpable. Diksha Sahu, a student traveling on the Vande Bharat Express for the first time, expressed her delight, noting the train’s cleanliness and superior amenities compared to local trains.

School principal Bhushan Paragniya praised the new service, highlighting its potential to greatly benefit intercity travelers by reducing travel time. "The Vande Bharat Express is a significant boost for our region. Its modern features will make travel more convenient and efficient," he said. Paragniya also expressed hope that additional Vande Bharat trains will accelerate progress in Chhattisgarh.

The flagging off ceremony was attended by Chhattisgarh Governor Raman Deka, Union Minister Tokhan Sahu, MP Brijmohan Aggarwal, and MLAs Purender Mishra and Khushwant Saheb.

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