In a significant boost to long-distance connectivity, Indian Railways is set to launch a new Amrit Bharat Express service linking New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal with Tiruchirappalli in Tamil Nadu. This weekly train will traverse through the states of West Bengal, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, offering an affordable and quality travel option for passengers, particularly from the lower and middle-income segments.
Route, Number, and Key Stoppages
The new service will be identified as train number 20609 from New Jalpaiguri to Tiruchirappalli. In the opposite direction, it will run as train number 20610. The train's route is strategically planned via major junctions including Kharagpur and Vishakhapatnam.
During its long journey, the train will make commercial halts at a total of 38 stations. The key stoppages include Kishanganj, Malda Town, Bolpur, Kharagpur, Balasore, Bhubaneswar, Brahmapur, Vishakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada, Chennai Egmore, and Thanjavur, among others. This extensive list ensures connectivity to numerous towns and cities across the three states it passes through.
Weekly Schedule and Journey Time
The Amrit Bharat Express will operate as a weekly service. From New Jalpaiguri, train number 20609 will depart every Friday at 16:45 hours. It is scheduled to reach Tiruchirappalli on Sunday at 16:15 hours, making the journey approximately 47.5 hours long.
For the return journey, train number 20610 will leave Tiruchirappalli every Wednesday at 05:45 hours. It is slated to arrive at New Jalpaiguri on Friday at 05:00 hours.
Composition and Operational Details
The train will have a composition of 22 coaches. The primary maintenance for the rake will be done at Tiruchirappalli Junction, with secondary maintenance at New Jalpaiguri. The service will also utilize several Coaching Terminus Stations (CTS) and watering stations en route for operational efficiency.
This new express service is part of Indian Railways' ongoing efforts to enhance inter-state connectivity and provide comfortable rail travel across vast distances. By linking the northeast region with the deep south, it strengthens the national transport network and offers a vital link for passengers and potentially for regional trade and cultural exchange.
