PANAJI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, through a video conference from Bhopal, flagged off the first Vande Bharat Express in Goa, departing from Madgaon railway station. This high-speed train will operate between Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Madgaon station, reducing the travel time by approximately one hour compared to the current fastest train connecting these two destinations.

During the event, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant acknowledged PM Narendra Modi's significant contribution in revolutionizing the Railways. He emphasized that such a remarkable transformation had not been witnessed in the country under non-BJP governments before 2014. Sawant invited a comparison of the road, air, railway, and water connectivity between past and present administrations, highlighting the remarkable progress achieved by the government, particularly in a small state like Goa.

Sawant expressed his optimism regarding the positive impact of Vande Bharat Express on entrepreneurial activities in Maharashtra and Goa. He emphasized the crucial role of railways as the lifeline of our nation, facilitating travel for the common people.

Union Minister for State for Tourism, Shripad Naik, emphasized the historical significance of this day in Goa's development. He noted the substantial progress made since 2014 and highlighted the 18 operational Vande Bharat Express trains across the country, offering numerous facilities to commuters. Naik reiterated the government's commitment to completing pending projects, driven by the needs of the common people.

State Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte emphasized the potential of this new connectivity in boosting tourism. He stated that the Vande Bharat Express would effectively link the Konkan region with the coastal belt of Goa-Maharashtra.

The inauguration of Vande Bharat Express on the Madgaon-Mumbai route was initially scheduled for June 3 but was postponed due to the tragic incident in Odisha involving another train.

Officials believe that the state-of-the-art Vande Bharat Express will significantly enhance connectivity on the Mumbai-Goa route, providing the people of the region with a fast and comfortable travel option.

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