Railways propose special Vande Bharat service on Delhi-Patna route

Indian Railways is exploring the introduction of a special Vande Bharat service on the Delhi-Patna route, aimed at easing travel pressure during peak festival periods when conventional trains face extended waitlists and booking challenges.

The proposal comes as thousands of travellers from Delhi and surrounding regions seek to return to Bihar for major festivals including Diwali and Chhath Puja, when confirmed rail tickets remain scarce. Current train services on this route frequently operate at full capacity with lengthy waiting lists for unreserved accommodation.

The proposed Vande Bharat express would offer a faster alternative, with journey time estimated at around 13 hours—a significant reduction compared to conventional express trains on the same route. The semi-high-speed service would cater to passengers seeking reliable, time-bound connectivity during the festive rush period.

Railways officials have indicated the service would enhance capacity on this important inter-state corridor connecting the national capital with Bihar's administrative hub. The special service is currently in the proposal stage, with operational details including frequency, coaching composition, and fare structure yet to be finalized by the ministry.