On Thursday, April 24, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first 16-coach Namo Bharat Rapid Rail service between Jayanagar and Patna, marking a milestone in the country’s expanding semi-high-speed rail network. The historic event took place during the National Panchayati Raj Day celebrations in Madhubani, Bihar, a region that has seen consistent developmental focus under the Modi-led government.

This initiative underscores the government’s ambition to revolutionise public transport infrastructure, especially in regional and high-demand corridors. The 16-coach configuration of the Namo Bharat train is a significant upgrade from the 12-coach version first introduced last year between Ahmedabad and Bhuj, offering enhanced passenger capacity and comfort.

The train route between Jayanagar and Patna strategically connects major towns in Bihar such as Madhubani, Sakri, Darbhanga, Samastipur, Barauni, and Mokama, facilitating smoother and faster travel for daily commuters, business travellers, and tourists. Railway authorities revealed that the increased coach capacity was introduced to meet the growing passenger demand on this high-traffic route.

The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail brings with it a host of cutting-edge features:

• The fully air-conditioned 16-coach train can accommodate around 2,000 seated passengers, with additional standing capacity for 1,000.

• It is equipped with ergonomically designed seating, modular interiors, USB charging ports, vacuum-based toilets, and real-time station route display panels.

• Safety features include the Kavach anti-collision system, CCTV surveillance, fire detection systems, and an emergency talk-back facility that allows passengers to communicate with the train crew.

In terms of accessibility and affordability, the service is a major win for the public. A 25-kilometer journey costs just Rs 30, ensuring that high-speed rail travel remains budget-friendly for all socio-economic segments. Operating six days a week, the train is expected to cut travel time in half with its top speed of 110 kmph.

The launch event in Madhubani was emotionally charged, beginning with a moment of silence for the 26 victims of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. PM Modi referred to the victims as “our family members” and reiterated that the nation stands united in grief and resolve.

This address was PM Modi’s first public speech since the attack on April 22, and his words reflected both sorrow and steadfastness. “India will ensure that every drop of innocent blood spilled is avenged with justice,” he said, vowing to take strict action against terrorism.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, also present at the event, echoed PM Modi’s sentiments, condemning the attack and pledging state-level support to the Centre’s initiatives against terrorism. Panchayati Raj Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the public’s confidence in Modi’s leadership, especially in difficult times like these.

In addition to the Jayanagar-Patna Namo Bharat train, PM Modi also flagged off the Amrit Bharat Express from Saharsa to Mumbai, and launched two new passenger services connecting Pipra to Saharsa, and Saharsa to Samastipur. These new connections further enhance regional railway access, giving passengers more frequent and convenient options for long and short-distance travel.

Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of Information & Publicity at the Railway Board, described the Namo Bharat initiative as a “glimpse into the future of Indian Railways”, signalling a move toward faster, smarter, and safer travel solutions. He noted that the integration of advanced technology, safety mechanisms, and commuter-friendly features sets a new benchmark in Indian public transportation.

The Namo Bharat train is also part of India’s broader “Viksit Bharat” vision, aiming to build world-class infrastructure, promote regional development, and provide equitable access to modern amenities. The train's launch during the Panchayati Raj Day event serves as a symbolic nod to the importance of local governance and grassroots development, aligning national transportation strategies with rural aspirations.

With Bihar playing a critical role in shaping national politics and development priorities, PM Modi’s visit and the launch of such a transformative project are seen as part of his government’s commitment to empowering the state. The initiative not only promises economic growth but also sets the stage for sustainable and inclusive development in the region.

As the new Namo Bharat service begins operations, thousands of daily commuters are expected to benefit from faster, cleaner, and safer intercity travel, solidifying the Modi government's position as a catalyst for progress in India’s transport sector.

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