By Akanksha Arora
In a bid to make it convenient for travellers, the Meerut To Varanasi Vande Bharat Express is set to commence soon. This will be the first direct train service between Meerut and Varanasi. This new route will extend the existing Meerut-Lucknow Vande Bharat service to include Varanasi Cantt, with a significant stop at Ayodhya Dham. According to reports, this train will start from August 28, 2025. Journey Details And ScheduleTrain number 22490, operating from Meerut to Varanasi, will cover a distance of 782.22 km in approximately 11 hours and 55 minutes. Passengers can expect a timely departure from Meerut City at 6:35 AM, with stops at key locations such as Moradabad, Bareilly, Lucknow, and Ayodhya Dham before arriving in Varanasi Cantt by 6:25 PM. The return journey, designated as train number 22489, will leave Varanasi Cantt at 9:10 AM, concluding back in Meerut City by 9:05 PM. Enhancing ConnectivityThe introduction of the Meerut To Varanasi Vande Bharat Express is anticipated to significantly benefit various groups, including students, entrepreneurs, and sports professionals. Previously, travellers had to navigate indirect routes via Prayagraj or rely on bus services, adding considerable time and inconvenience to their journeys. This direct train service is expected to streamline travel between these important regions, fostering greater accessibility and economic activity. Expanding Vande Bharat NetworkThis new addition marks the seventh Vande Bharat train operating from Varanasi, joining others that connect to cities like Agra, Ranchi, Deoghar, Patna, and New Delhi. The rapid expansion of Vande Bharat services reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to modernising rail travel and enhancing connections between key economic and cultural hubs. The Meerut To Varanasi Vande Bharat Express is a crucial step in improving intra-state connectivity across Uttar Pradesh, making travel more efficient and encouraging increased tourism and business interactions in the region.