India's first Vande Metro, renamed as Namo Bharat Rapid Rail

India's first Vande Metro, renamed Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, was launched on September 16, 2024, covering 360 km from Bhuj to Ahmedabad in 5 hours and 45 minutes. The train, part of PM Modi's initiative to improve railway infrastructure, connects cities within a 150 km radius and offers 3-4 hour journeys.

Introduction and Launch Details

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India's first Vande Metro, renamed as Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, on September 16, 2024
Inaugural route: Bhuj to Ahmedabad, covering 360 km in 5 hours 45 minutes
Regular service starts September 17, 2024, from Ahmedabad
Fare: Rs 455 for the full journey
Part of PM Modi's initiative to boost railway infrastructure
Connects cities within a 150 km radius, offering 3-4 hour journeys
Designed to link city centers with peripheral areas

Technical Specifications and Features

Maximum speed: 110 km/h with faster acceleration and deceleration
12 coaches with seating capacity for 1,150 passengers

Advanced safety systems:

- KAVACH for collision avoidance
- Fire detection and aerosol-based fire suppression
- Emergency lights

Cutting-edge technology:

- Under slung propulsion
- Advanced braking systems
- Double-leaf automatic sliding doors
- Fully sealed flexible gangway for dust-free, quiet, and rain-proof interior
Modular design with ejector-based vacuum evacuation toilets
Semi-permanent couplers for jerk-free travel
Driving cabs at both ends to eliminate turnaround time

Passenger Amenities and Comfort

Ergonomically designed seats
Fully air-conditioned cabins
Divyangjan-friendly toilets
Meal service
Mobile charging sockets (type-C and type-A)
CCTV surveillance
Route-map indicators above1 doors
Continuous LED lighting
Talk-back system for passenger-driver communication in emergencies
Panoramic windows
Cushioned sofas for added comfort

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