Railway passengers travelling through Uttar Pradesh are set to receive a major connectivity boost ahead of the festive season. A brand new वंदे भारत स्लीपर ट्रेन has been lined up to run between the national capital New Delhi and Varanasi, which serves as the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Railway Board authorities have already communicated formal directives to the respective zonal railway general managers to ensure smooth operational rollout.
Inauguration Details and Key Figures
The formal flagging off ceremony for this advanced long-distance service is scheduled for October 31. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi आदित्यनाथ will jointly inaugurate the train from Varanasi station. This marks a significant milestone in expanding the premium overnight rail network across the country.
Timings for the Upward Journey to New Delhi
The train heading from Varanasi toward New Delhi, designated as train number 27421, is scheduled to depart at 8:50 PM. It will reach Prayagraj Junction at 10:35 PM, halting briefly for five minutes before leaving at 10:40 PM. Continuing its westward journey, the service will arrive at Kanpur Central at 12:40 AM and finally pull into New Delhi at 6:10 AM the following morning, allowing commuters to travel overnight and reach the capital by early morning.
Schedule for the Return Journey to Varanasi
For the return trip, the Vande Bharat sleeper service bearing train number 27422 will depart from New Delhi at 9:40 PM. It is scheduled to reach Kanpur Central at 02:45 AM, departing after a five-minute halt at 02:50 AM. The train will then arrive at Prayagraj Junction at 05:05 AM, stopping for five minutes before completing the final leg of the journey to arrive at Varanasi Junction at 7:10 AM.
Weekly Operating Schedule
According to the proposed operational framework, this premium sleeper connection will operate six days a week. Regular services will remain non-operational on Saturdays. However, travelers should note that final confirmation regarding exact fare structures, booking commencement dates, and minor timetable adjustments will be officially published by the railways shortly.
Practical Advantages for Commuters
The introduction of this sleeper rake is expected to heavily benefit business travelers, corporate workers, and daily commuters moving between Delhi, Kanpur, Prayagraj, and Varanasi. By enabling passengers to sleep through the journey and arrive at their destination at dawn, the service saves valuable working hours. Passengers are advised to check official railway notifications for final updates on ticket reservations and detailed station halts.
