Archive · 25 Jul 2025
Indian Railways Discusses Vande Bharat Train Speed and Track Upgrades
Vande Bharat trains are designed to go fast, but their average speed has recently slowed down.
The Railway Minister says this depends on the track and stopping points.
The tracks are being improved with new materials.
A new type of Vande Bharat train is also in testing.
Average speed of Vande Bharat trains has decreased.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw cited track geometry and stoppages as factors affecting speed.
Track upgrades include use of modern materials and machines.
Track suitable for 130 kmph+ speeds has increased from 5% to 21.8%.
The first Vande Bharat sleeper prototype is undergoing commissioning.
- Who
- Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
- What
- Factors affecting the speed of Vande Bharat trains and ongoing track upgrades.
- When
- Over the last 10 years, with speed data compared between 2014 and 2025.
- Where
- Across the Indian Railway network.
- Why
- To address the decrease in average speed of Vande Bharat trains and to increase train speeds through track upgrades.
- Vande Bharat Design Speed
- 180 kmph
- Vande Bharat Max Operating Speed
- 160 kmph
- Track suitable for 130 kmph+ speeds (2014)
- 5%
- Track suitable for 130 kmph+ speeds (2025)
- 21.8%
- Vande Bharat sleeper prototype
- Undergoing commissioning
