PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Guwahati-New Jalpaiguri Vande Bharat Express, boosting connectivity and tourism in North East
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the North East's first Vande Bharat Express, which will run from Guwahati to New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. During the inaugural event, the prime minister symbolically waved a green flag on screen, officially launching the train. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma were present at Guwahati station for the ceremony.
In his speech, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the Vande Bharat Express would have a significant impact on tourism, education, trade, and employment opportunities in the North East region. The semi-high-speed train will enhance connectivity between Assam and West Bengal, further strengthening the transportation network. Modi highlighted the infrastructure development in the North East over the past nine years, with all states now connected to the railway network. He stressed that infrastructure development is inclusive and does not discriminate, promoting social justice and secularism.
The state-of-the-art Vande Bharat Express will offer the people of the region faster and more comfortable travel options, ultimately boosting tourism. The train will complete the journey from Guwahati to New Jalpaiguri in 5 hours and 30 minutes, compared to the current fastest train, which takes 6 hours and 30 minutes for the same distance.
