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Vande Bharat Express Operates Below Designed Speed: Infrastructure Constraints Hinder Potential
India's Vande Bharat Express, touted as the fastest passenger train in the country, is currently operating at an average speed significantly lower than its designed capacity. According to a recent Right to Information (RTI) reply, the train's average speed has dropped over the past three years.
Vande Bharat trains, manufactured entirely in India, were introduced on various routes connecting major cities. These trains were initially promoted as capable of reaching speeds up to 180km/h. However, for safety reasons, their maximum operational speed was set at 160km/h.
Despite this, the trains have been popular among passengers due to their reduced travel times between cities. However, the RTI response revealed that the average speed of these trains has decreased significantly. In the financial year 2020-21, the average speed was 84.48km/h. This figure has further dropped to 76.25 km/h in the current financial year 2023-24.
The Ministry of Railways explained that while Vande Bharat trains have been introduced on several routes, the infrastructure on these routes is not yet fully developed to support higher speeds. Upgrading work is ongoing, and once completed, the trains are expected to operate at their full potential.
For now, safety concerns necessitate operating the trains at reduced speeds. On certain sections of the routes, running the trains at high speeds could pose risks to both the environment and nearby areas. Additionally, strengthening work on some routes contributes to the reduced speeds.
Lowest Average Speed Route
Among all Vande Bharat trains in operation, the one running between Coimbatore and Bengaluru has recorded the lowest average speed of 58.11 kmph. Other routes have marginally higher average speeds.
DriveSpark Thinks
The reduction in speed is expected to be a temporary measure. The Railways is likely to continue upgrading infrastructure and gradually increase train speeds until they reach their full potential.
We also expect the Vande Bharat Express trains to gradually improve the train journey experience in the country. That being said, we expect the government to improve the infrastructure in the coming years as well.
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