Vande Bharat Express now operating with 16 coaches instead of 8 from 7th August
Indian Railways has announced a major upgrade for passengers travelling on the Puri–Rourkela–Puri Vande Bharat Express. From 7th August onwards, the number of coaches on this route has been increased from 8 to 16. This decision was taken after receiving a tremendous response from passengers.
According to officials, the upgraded rake will now include 12 AC Chair Car coaches, 2 Executive Chair Car coaches, and 2 Crew Chair Car coaches.
Over 110% Occupancy Shows Rising Popularity
The decision was taken in view of the overwhelming response from travellers. Since its launch, the 20836/20835 Vande Bharat Express has been operating at more than 110% capacity, indicating its growing popularity among passengers.
Officials stated that train number 20836 (Puri–Rourkela) recorded 112.76% occupancy, while train number 20835 (Rourkela–Puri) registered 127.64% occupancy. This high demand reflects strong interest among daily commuters, business travellers, and tourists alike.
Enhanced Comfort and Boost to Connectivity
With increased capacity, more passengers will benefit from fast, comfortable, and technologically advanced transportation. Officials mentioned that this initiative is also expected to enhance regional connectivity, tourism, and economic development in the state.
The Puri–Rourkela Vande Bharat Express is a semi-high-speed train that connects Puri with Rourkela, covering a distance of 505 kilometres in 7.5 hours. The train operates six days a week, except Tuesdays. It departs from Puri at 5:00 AM and from Rourkela at 2:10 PM.
The train halts at nine stations: Khurda Road Junction, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Talcher Road, Angul, Rairakhol, Sambalpur City, and Jharsuguda Junction.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
