Introducing Vande Metro: India’s Newest Short-Distance Metro Network
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently announced the Union government’s plans to introduce the ‘Vande Metro’ by December 2023. This new initiative comes after the successful launch of the Vande Bharat Express, a semi-high-speed train that has been operating in various parts of the country. The upcoming metro network aims to connect major cities and provide a cost-effective mode of transportation.
What is Vande Metro?
Vaishnaw stated that Vande Metro will operate on a short-distance metro rail network, connecting major cities within a distance of 100 kilometers or less. This new initiative aims to ease congestion on local trains and provide an affordable mode of transportation. Vande Metro is based on the positive response received for the Vande Bharat Express and will be operational by December.
Key Features of Vande Metro
Vande Metro is a short-distance version of the Vande Bharat Express, with eight coaches, similar to a metro train. It will run between cities that are less than 100 kilometers apart and will operate at a high frequency, with four to five trips per day. The aim of the Vande Metro is to provide an affordable and efficient mode of transportation to job seekers and students.
The High-Speed Test Track
When asked about the “High-Speed Test Track,” Vaishnaw informed that it is designed to assist in testing high-speed trains and will accelerate the process of constructing such trains.
Production of Vande Bharat Trains
The Ministry has instructed the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai and the Research Design and Standard Organisation in Lucknow to begin production of the eight-car rakes for the Vande Bharat trains as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Vande Metro is a significant step towards providing affordable and efficient transportation to citizens of India. With its short-distance network and high-frequency operations, the Vande Metro aims to reduce congestion and provide easy connectivity to major cities. It is a welcome addition to India’s rapidly expanding transportation infrastructure and is expected to transform the way people travel within the country.
