PM Modi Flags off 8th Vande Bharat Train Connecting Telangana & AP, Says It Will Connect Shared Culture

A new Vande Bharat train, connecting Telangana’s Secunderabad with Andhra Pradesh’s Visakhapatnam, was virtually flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. With this, Railways now has eight Vande Bharat Express trains.

The eighth Vande Bharat train in the southern belt, connecting Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, has been launched by PM Modi on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. “In this festive environment, today Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are receiving a grand present. Vande Bharat Express, in a way, will connect shared culture and shared heritage of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh,” said PM Modi while flagging off the new Vande Bharat Express.

Vande Bharat Express train, connecting Secunderabad with Visakhapatnam, is the first one connecting the Telugu-speaking states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, covering a distance of around 700 km, added the statement.

The train will have stoppages at Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry and Vijayawada stations in Andhra Pradesh and at Khammam, Warangal and Secunderabad stations in Telangana.

The indigenously designed Vande Bharat Express is equipped with state-of-the-art passenger amenities. A statement by Railways mentioned it will provide rail users with a faster, more comfortable, and convenient travel experience.

Launching the Vande Bharat Express through video conferencing, PM Modi said that the train will boost tourism.

“Vande Bharat Train is the symbol of the resolutions and capability of New India. It is a symbol of that India which has started on the path of rapid change – India which is restless for its dreams and aspirations; India which wants to reach its goal swiftly,” PM Modi said

PM Modi also extended greetings for Army Day. “Every Indian is proud of the Army. Indian Army’s contribution towards the security of the nation & its borders, its valour is unparalleled,” PM Modi said at the Vande Bharat Express launch.