The call for a daily Vande Bharat sleeper train connecting Amritsar and Takhat Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded has intensified over the past few days, driven by religious organisations and elected representatives citing the need for comfortable and efficient pilgrimage travel.
Why the Demand Is Growing
The existing Sachkhand Express, which links the two holy cities, faces severe seat shortages. Amritsar MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla noted in a communique to the government that obtaining a seat on this train has become an uphill task, leading to repeated calls for additional services. Over recent months, the MP has received numerous representations from Sikh Jathas, Gurdwara Management Committees, and devotees urging the introduction of a daily Vande Bharat sleeper on this route.
The Ministry of Railways has acknowledged the demand, though no official timeline has been announced.
Features of the Proposed Vande Bharat Sleeper
GS Bedi, associated with the Sri Guru Nanak Gurpurab Committee, highlighted the train's advanced features. “The Vande Bharat sleeper train has ergonomically designed sleeping berths, automated doors, and advanced safety features,” he said. He added that the new train is faster and aims to make the long 35-hour journey from Amritsar to Nanded in Maharashtra more comfortable.
Jaswinder Singh, director of Akal Purakh Ki Fauj (APKF), emphasised that the Vande Bharat train is equipped with modern technology and offers premium comfort at affordable fares, making it ideal for long-distance journeys.
Pilgrimage Significance
Amritsar is home to the Golden Temple, while Nanded hosts Takhat Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib, one of the five takhts of Sikhism. The daily train would serve thousands of pilgrims who travel between these two sacred sites every year. Currently, the Sachkhand Express runs less frequently and often has waiting lists extending for months.
Political and Community Support
MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla has been a vocal advocate for the new service. In addition to writing to the railway ministry, he has held meetings with officials and community leaders. The Sikh organisations backing the demand argue that the Vande Bharat sleeper would not only reduce travel time but also boost religious tourism in both states.
The community's persistence appears to be yielding results. With the ministry's acknowledgment, there is cautious optimism that a formal announcement may come in the upcoming railway budget or through a special allocation.
Next Steps
Railway officials have not yet confirmed the route or schedule, but sources indicate that the feasibility study may be fast-tracked given the public pressure. If approved, the Amritsar-Nanded Vande Bharat sleeper would join the growing network of Vande Bharat trains that are progressively replacing conventional express services on key routes across India.
