Ahmedabad: The Vande Bharat Express has become a key driver of premium rail travel from Ahmedabad and across Gujarat, with nearly 73 lakh passengers availing the service between October 2022 and March 2026.

In this period, six pairs of Vande Bharat trains operating from the state generated revenue of Rs 722 crore (approx.). The Ahmedabad–Mumbai corridor, in particular, has witnessed robust demand, with both services on this route emerging as a preferred option for business travellers, professionals, and frequent commuters.

Railway data indicates exceptionally high occupancy levels, with some routes recording up to 140% occupancy. Several services consistently operated above full capacity, while others maintained occupancy levels exceeding 90%, officials said.

The six Gujarat-linked Vande Bharat services include Mumbai Central–Gandhinagar, Sabarmati–Jodhpur, Ahmedabad–Okha, Mumbai Central–Ahmedabad, Sabarmati–Veraval, and Asarva–Udaipur. These trains were introduced in phases between October 2022 and February 2026.

Officials attributed the rising popularity of the trains to modern onboard features such as GPS-based passenger information systems, reclining seats, mobile charging ports, infotainment systems, CCTV surveillance, and bio-vacuum toilets. Enhanced catering, improved punctuality, better safety standards, and reduced travel time have also strengthened passenger confidence in the service, they added. DeshGujarat