The Vande Bharat Express, India's indigenous semi-high-speed train, has been a subject of intense scrutiny and debate since its inception.

While hailed as a significant stride in India's railway modernization, it has also faced its fair share of challenges and criticisms.

A Double-Edged Sword

The Vande Bharat has demonstrated remarkable popularity among passengers, with consistently high occupancy rates. This popularity is a testament to its comfortable interiors, modern amenities, and faster travel times compared to conventional trains.

However, the project has also faced criticisms, particularly regarding its speed and the government's allocation of resources.

A Stumbling Block: The Alstom Tender

One of the most significant setbacks for the Vande Bharat came in August 2024 when the Indian Railways canceled ₹30,000 crores tender for 100 additional trains to be manufactured by Alstom India.

Citing the high bid price, the government's decision raised concerns about the project's cost-effectiveness and its potential to scale up.

A Focus on Accessibility

Sudhanshu Mani, the architect of the Vande Bharat, has emphasized the need for the government to prioritize the needs of common passengers, rather than solely focusing on the high-speed train. He has argued that many Indians cannot afford AC travel and that the government should invest in more affordable and accessible transportation options.

Infrastructure Constraints

While the Vande Bharat is capable of reaching speeds of up to 160 kmph, its average speed has been lower than expected due to infrastructure limitations. The existing railway tracks are often unable to accommodate such high speeds, leading to slower travel times. The Indian Railways has been undertaking extensive track upgrades to address this issue, but it is a time-consuming and costly endeavor.

A Balancing Act

The Vande Bharat Express represents a significant step forward for Indian Railways, but it is not without its challenges. While its popularity is undeniable, the project's success will ultimately depend on the government's ability to address the issues related to cost, infrastructure, and accessibility. As India continues to invest in its railway network, it is crucial to strike a balance between modernization and affordability to ensure that the benefits of the Vande Bharat reach a wider section of the population.

Vande Bharat's Average Speed: While the Vande Bharat is designed to reach speeds of up to 160 kmph, its average speed in operation has been around 100-110 kmph.

Infrastructure Upgrades: The Indian Railways has been investing heavily in upgrading tracks and signaling systems to enable higher speeds for the Vande Bharat and other trains.

Future Plans: The government has announced plans to expand the Vande Bharat fleet and introduce new routes, further enhancing its reach and accessibility.

By carefully considering these factors, the Indian Railways can ensure that the Vande Bharat becomes a truly transformative force in the country's transportation landscape.