Passengers heading to Bihar for Chhath Puja now have a new train option.
Indian Railways has introduced its first Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 with air-conditioned coaches.
The train runs on the New Delhi to Patna route as a special service.
It left New Delhi Railway Station at midnight on November 11.
Key points
- This is the first Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 with AC coaches.
- It runs between New Delhi and Patna as a Chhath Puja special.
- The 22-coach train has classes from First AC to general.
- It was designed by Integral Coach Factory in Chennai.
So what is new for passengers?
Earlier Amrit Bharat trains had only sleeper and general coaches.
Amrit Bharat trains are meant for affordable long-distance travel.
This version adds First AC, Second AC and Third AC coaches. You can pick the seat that suits your budget and comfort.
The train also has improved seats, better suspension and modern toilets.
Mobile charging points are available too, which can help on long trips.
How does the push-pull design help?
The train uses push-pull technology. Locomotives are placed at both ends of the train.
The design is meant to help the train pick up speed quickly and run more smoothly.
However, these upgrades do not mean it will always be faster than other trains.
Why does this matter for families travelling home?
Every year, many people travel from Delhi and other cities to their hometowns in Bihar for Chhath.
Trains become very crowded during this time.
A Central Railway official said special trains had helped ease crowds at some stations.
He named Mumbai and Pune among the places where crowds had reduced.
What happens next for this train?
For now, the AC version has been introduced as a special train for the festive travel period.
No regular timetable or wider route plan has been shared yet.
If you plan to travel, check official railway information for the latest schedule before you book.
Sources
- The Economic Times: No longer just non-AC train: Indian Railways' first Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 with AC coaches hits tracks between Delhi and Patna to ease Chhath Puja rush
- Zee Business: Chhath Puja Special Train to Bihar: Indian Railways launches first Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 with AC coaches
- Urban Acres: Amrit Bharat Express Adds AC Coaches on Delhi-Patna Route
