Rail connectivity to Haridwar is set for expansion after approval was granted to extend the Bandra Terminus–Delhi Sarai Rohilla Garib Rath Express to the city and operate new AC trains from Haridwar to Veraval and Okha.
The development was welcomed in a statement published by @pushkardhami, which expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for approving the services.
Wider links with western India
The approved changes are expected to strengthen Uttarakhand’s rail connection with western parts of the country. The Garib Rath extension will bring Haridwar into the route of a service currently connecting Bandra Terminus with Delhi Sarai Rohilla.
The proposal also includes new AC train services linking Haridwar with Veraval and Okha. The statement did not provide train numbers, operating dates, schedules or frequency details.
For passengers, the planned services could provide additional rail options for journeys between Haridwar and western India. However, details about ticket availability and the start of operations have not been given.
Relevance for the upcoming Kumbh
The expanded connectivity is expected to be particularly useful during the upcoming Kumbh. Haridwar attracts pilgrims from across the country, and additional links with western destinations could make travel more convenient for visitors.
The statement also linked the rail expansion with religious tourism and Uttarakhand’s local economy. Increased visitor access may support tourism-related activity in the state, although no economic figures or passenger estimates were provided.
The approval covers the Garib Rath extension and the new AC services. Further operational information, including schedules and commencement dates, remains awaited.
Conclusion
The approved rail expansion will extend the Garib Rath to Haridwar and add proposed AC links with Veraval and Okha, improving travel options for pilgrims and supporting religious tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which train will be extended to Haridwar?
The Bandra Terminus–Delhi Sarai Rohilla Garib Rath Express will be extended to Haridwar.
Q. Which new AC routes have received approval?
New AC train services between Haridwar and Veraval, and between Haridwar and Okha, have received approval.
Q. Why is the expansion significant for Uttarakhand?
It is expected to improve the state’s rail connectivity with western India.
Q. How could the services help during the upcoming Kumbh?
They are expected to make travel easier for pilgrims coming to Haridwar from across the country.
Q. What wider benefits were highlighted?
The statement linked the expansion with religious tourism and activity in Uttarakhand’s local economy.
