Vande Bharat Metro renamed Namo Bharat Rapid Rail before inauguration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Ahmedabad on Monday for his first visit to Gujarat, where he will inaugurate India's first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail service, formerly known as the Vande Metro, along with other Vande Bharat trains. The metro service, which will operate between Bhuj and Ahmedabad, is a major initiative aimed at revolutionizing intercity commuting in the country.

Just hours before the official inauguration, the Railway Ministry renamed the Vande Metro to Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, marking a new phase in India’s rail transport system. The service is set to be flagged off virtually from the Bhuj railway station at 4:15 pm by the Prime Minister.

The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail is expected to significantly boost the economy in the Kutch region. Described by Western Railways as a "leap forward in commuter comfort," the new rail service is seen as a catalyst for job creation and a boost to local tourism in the region. The project is also seen as an important factor in stimulating economic growth and easing intercity travel.

Starting September 17, the Ahmedabad-Bhuj route will operate daily, except on Saturdays. Trains will depart from Ahmedabad at 5:30 pm, arriving in Bhuj by 11:10 pm. Return services from Bhuj to Ahmedabad will commence the following day, September 18.