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Vande Bharat expansion: Indian Railways plans 800 trainsets by 2030; 4,500 by 2047

Vande Bharat express expansion: Being the country's first indigenously designed and manufactured semi-high-speed trainset, it has been developed to improve connectivity and reduce travel time between cities.

Currently, 164 Vande Bharat train services are operational in the country.Currently, 164 Vande Bharat train services are operational in the country. (Image generated using AI)

Vande Bharat express: Indian Railways has planned a massive expansion of Vande Bharat trainsets across its network. Being the country’s first indigenously designed and manufactured semi-high-speed trainset, it has been developed to improve connectivity and reduce travel time between cities. Currently, 164 Vande Bharat train services are operational in the country.

Vande Bharat production plan

The national transporter has planned to expand the Vande Bharat fleet to 800 trains by 2030 and 4,500 by 2047. “Vande Bharat is envisioned as a key pillar of India’s passenger rail modernisation in the coming decades. By 2047, the Vande Bharat fleet is envisioned to scale to around 4,500 trainsets, aligned with India’s long-term development goals.

In the medium term, the focus is on scaling up services, operating about 800 Vande Bharat trainsets by 2030, subject to infrastructure readiness and manufacturing capacity,” the Ministry of Railways said.

Vande Bharat cuisine menu

From December 2025, the national transporter has introduced regional cuisines on select Vande Bharat trains to further enhance passenger experience onboard. As for example, the onboard menus feature a wide range of regional specialities, including Maharashtra’s Kanda Poha and Masala Upma, Andhra Pradesh’s Kodi Kura, Gujarat’s Methi Thepla, Odisha’s Aloo Phulkopi, and West Bengal’s Kosha Paneer and Murgir Jhol. Southern delicacies such as Kerala meals with Appam and Palada Payasam, along with Bihar’s Champaran Paneer and Chicken.

Vande Bharat train features

  • Semi-permanent jerk-free couplers and improved suspension systems contribute to better ride comfort, while regenerative braking systems enhance energy efficiency during operations.
  • Provision for the indigenously developed Train Collision Avoidance System (KAVACH).
  • Centrally controlled automatic plug doors and fully sealed wider gangways.
  • Modern air-conditioning systems with indigenously developed UV-C lamp-based disinfection systems.
  • CCTV cameras, emergency alarm push buttons, and passenger–crew talk-back units in all coaches
  • Coach condition monitoring System (CCMS) display with remote monitoring.
  • Bio-vacuum toilets and Divyangjan-friendly lavatories in the driving coaches at both ends of the train.
  • GPS-based passenger information systems, ergonomically designed seating, and improved ride comfort contribute to an enhanced overall travel experience on Vande Bharat trains.

Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More

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