Chennai-Nagercoil Vande Bharat Express: India's Fastest Southern Connection Inaugurated

The Chennai-Nagercoil Vande Bharat Express, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, promises the fastest connectivity to Kanyakumari. Covering 726 km in under 9 hours, the train commences commercial operations on September 1. It enhances links to key hubs in Tamil Nadu and runs six days a week.

The Chennai-Nagercoil Vande Bharat Express, flagged off virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marks a significant milestone in Indian rail connectivity. This high-speed train promises the fastest route to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, covering a distance of 726 km in just 8 hours and 50 minutes, according to a senior railway official.

Beginning its journey from Chennai Egmore at 5 am, the Vande Bharat Express reaches Nagercoil at 1.50 pm with stops at seven stations, including Tambaram, Villupuram, Tiruchirappalli, Dindigul, Madurai, Kovilpatti, and Tirunelveli. The return journey starts at 2.20 pm, arriving back in Chennai at 11.00 pm. Officially launching on Sunday, the train will operate six days a week, accommodating 1,128 passengers in its 16 coaches.

Southern Railway officials report that the new service will enhance connectivity to significant industrial, business, and tourist hubs, serving as a boon for passengers, especially during weekends and festivals. This addition complements existing Vande Bharat services on other crucial routes across Tamil Nadu and beyond.

(With inputs from agencies.)