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PM Modi Launches Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express for Migrant Workers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express, a new weekly train service. The train provides a direct connection between industrial hubs in Tamil Nadu and mineral-rich regions in Jharkhand and Odisha. It is equipped with modern LHB coaches offering enhanced safety, comfort, and amenities like charging sockets and CCTV. The service is expected to significantly benefit migrant workers traveling between these regions.

Key Points: Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express Flagged Off by PM Modi

  • Direct link for migrant workers
  • Connects South & East India
  • Features modern LHB coaches
  • Part of Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
2 min read

PM Modi flags off Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express; DRM highlights modern features

PM Modi virtually inaugurates Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express, a direct weekly train linking Tamil Nadu to Jharkhand with modern LHB coaches.

"It is a proud moment that PM Modi has flagged off several projects and trains in Tamil Nadu. - Panna Lal"

Podanur, March 11

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday virtually inaugurated several new railway services and infrastructure projects from Tiruchirappalli, including the flagship Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express.

The weekly train will connect Podanur Junction in Coimbatore with Dhanbad in Jharkhand, linking South India's industrial hubs directly with Eastern India's coal and mineral regions.

PM Modi, present in Tichy, also inaugurated two other Amrit Bharat Express trains, two express trains, and several passenger services. The Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express will depart from Podanur every Saturday morning, reaching Dhanbad on Monday morning. The return journey begins from Dhanbad on Monday.

Key stations along the route include Salem, Renigunta, Vijayawada, Jharsuguda, Ranchi, and Bokaro Steel City. The service connects Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand.

The train is expected to be a boon for thousands of migrant workers employed in textile and manufacturing hubs in Coimbatore and Tiruppur.

Previously, these workers had to endure multiple train changes and long journeys to reach their homes in Jharkhand and Odisha. The new service offers a direct, affordable, and comfortable option.

Speaking to IANS, DRM of Salem Division Panna Lal said, "It is a proud moment that PM Modi has flagged off several projects and trains in Tamil Nadu. The Podanur-Dhanbad Amrit Bharat Express is convenient for people travelling between South and North India and is dedicated to serving the public."

He highlighted the train's modern features, including LHB coaches for enhanced safety, cushioned seating even in unreserved coaches, high-quality toilets, charging sockets, and direct communication with the crew in emergencies.

LHB coaches are modern and stainless-steel coaches. These coaches are manufactured in India for Indian Railways. They offer improved safety, higher speeds up to 160 km/h, and increased passenger capacity compared to older ICF coaches. These coaches are 2 meters longer, providing more space.

Other amenities include fire detection systems, CCTV, and improved ventilation. Being a non-AC train, it offers comfortable long-distance travel at affordable fares.

The launch is part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and railway expansion projects aimed at boosting economic and social connectivity between South and Southeast India, benefiting migrant workers, industries, and regular passengers alike.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone from Salem, seeing our station as a key stop is great. But I hope the railway ministry also focuses on the cleanliness and maintenance of these new trains. We launch with fanfare, but the real test is sustaining the service quality over years.
K
Karthik V
Direct link between textile hub and mineral hub makes so much economic sense. Should boost trade and help workers save both time and money. The charging sockets and better toilets are much-needed upgrades for long journeys. Good step forward!
M
Michael C
Improving connectivity like this is crucial for a developing economy. Linking industrial regions reduces logistical friction. Hope the schedule is reliable and the safety features like CCTV are properly monitored.
S
Shreya B
My mamu works in a Tiruppur mill and is from Ranchi. He used to spend nearly two days travelling home during festivals. This train will cut his journey time and stress significantly. Aapda me avsar (an opportunity in difficulty) for many families. 🙏
A
Aryan P
Weekly service is a start, but if the demand is high from migrant workers, they should consider increasing the frequency. Also, hope the 'affordable fares' remain truly affordable and don't see steep hikes after a few months.

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