Uttar Pradesh's rail network is set for a significant upgrade with the launch of its fifteenth Vande Bharat Express train. The new semi-high-speed service will commence commercial operations next week, further cementing the state's position as a leader in premium rail connectivity.
Route, Schedule, and Key Stoppages
The new train, identified as Train number 26503/26504, will run between Gomtinagar and Saharanpur. According to the schedule, the inaugural run will start from Saharanpur on December 9, 2025, followed by the journey commencing from Gomtinagar on December 10, 2025.
Passengers can expect halts at seven important stations along the route, ensuring connectivity for several key districts. The designated stoppages are:
- Daliganj
- Sitapur
- Shahjahanpur
- Bareilly
- Moradabad
- Najibabad
- Roorkee
This strategic selection of stops aims to bridge major urban and commercial centers in western and central Uttar Pradesh.
Operational Control and Passenger Benefits
The Northern Railway (NR) zone will be responsible for the maintenance and operation of this new-age train. The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express on this route is expected to substantially shorten travel time while offering passengers modern amenities and enhanced comfort.
These trains have been instrumental in transforming inter-city travel within the state by providing faster, more reliable, and convenient journeys. The focus on reducing travel time between distances has been a hallmark of the Vande Bharat service.
Uttar Pradesh: A Vande Bharat Powerhouse
Uttar Pradesh holds the distinction of being the first state in India to receive this premium train service. The inaugural Vande Bharat in the state connected Varanasi and New Delhi.
With this new addition, a total of 15 Vande Bharat Express trains will be operational across Uttar Pradesh, seamlessly linking more than 20 cities. The existing fleet includes crucial connections such as:
- Varanasi-New Delhi-Varanasi (22435/22436 & 22415/22416)
- Ayodhya-Anand Vihar Terminal-Ayodhya (22425/22426)
- Lucknow-Dehradun-Lucknow (22545/22546)
- Gorakhpur-Prayagraj-Gorakhpur (22549/22550)
- Meerut City-Lucknow-Meerut City (22490/22489)
- Patna-Gomti Nagar-Patna (22345/22346)
- Agra Cantt-Banaras-Agra Cantt (20176/20175)
- Gorakhpur-Patliputra-Gorakhpur (26502/26501)
The consistent expansion of the Vande Bharat network underscores a focused effort to modernize rail infrastructure and provide a superior travel experience for millions of passengers in India's most populous state.
