Railway Minister: Vande Bharat Hits Over 110 km/hr in 81% Runs
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reveals Vande Bharat trains run 81% above 110 km/hr; major railway upgrades boost speed and safety across India
Udaipur, March 26, 2026 - Fully indigenous Vande Bharat trains are currently operating at speeds exceeding 110 km/hr for 81% of their journeys. The Ministry of Railways has undertaken several initiatives to increase train speeds and modernise railway infrastructure. Railway tracks have been significantly upgraded with multiple mechanical and structural improvements.
This information was provided by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in response to a question raised in Parliament by MP Manna Lal Rawat.
Dr Rawat had asked about the average operational speed of semi-high-speed trains like Vande Bharat Express across various railway routes in the country. He also inquired whether factors such as loop points, level crossings, curves and speed restrictions reduce the actual running speed compared to planned speeds. Additionally, he sought clarification on whether these trains are operating below their designed speed even on newly-constructed or upgraded railway sections.
The Railway Minister said Vande Bharat trains have a design speed of 180 km/hr and a maximum operational speed of 160 km/hr. However, the average speed depends on factors like track geometry, stoppages along the route and maintenance activities. These trains are operated at the maximum permissible speed allowed on respective sections.
He further emphasised that increasing train speed is an ongoing process in Indian Railways. Continuous efforts are being made to strengthen, upgrade, modernise and improve railway tracks.
Modern track structures now include 60 kg rails, 90 UTS (Ultimate Tensile Strength) rails, pre-stressed concrete sleepers (PSC), improved turnout systems, steel channel sleepers on girders and H-beam sleepers. Advanced technologies such as thick web switches, weldable CMS crossings and flash butt welding are being implemented to improve safety and ride quality.
To reduce joints, rails of up to 260 metres are being supplied, enhancing both safety and travel comfort. Interlocking at level crossings is also being introduced to improve safety.
The Railway Minister concluded that these measures have significantly enhanced the speed capacity of railway tracks.
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