A major leap forward for railway travelers in Bihar was marked by the inauguration of the Amrit Bharat Express, connecting Siwan and Chhapra with Delhi’s Anand Vihar Terminal. This new addition runs through the heart of North India, promising affordability, comfort, and reliability especially for the state’s robust middle-class passenger base. Here’s an in-depth look at this landmark introduction, its route, schedule, coach composition, and passenger impact.
Inauguration and Route Highlights
On September 29, 2025, the North Eastern Railway (NER) flagged off its first Amrit Bharat Express on the Chhapra-Delhi route. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary inaugurated the train by video conferencing, while simultaneous festivities marked the rollout of the Darbhanga-Madar (Ajmer) Amrit Bharat special service the same day. This signals a significant rail expansion for Bihar and neighboring states, as the government continues to modernize and upgrade transport services.
Train Features: Affordable Premium for the Middle Class
The Amrit Bharat Express is categorized as a non-air-conditioned premium train, targeting families and travelers looking for a mix of comfort and cost savings. With a runtime that competes with regular express trains, its upgraded coaches offer safer and more enjoyable journeys for medium- and long-haul routes, especially serving migrant workers, students, and business travelers from Bihar to the National Capital Region.
Key Features:
- Total Coaches: 22
- Eight sleeper (shayanyan) coaches
- Eleven general second-class coaches
- One pantry car for refreshments
- Two LSLRD (luggage-cum-guard van with reserved compartment) coaches
- Onboard Pantry: Affordable and hygienic food is available for passengers
- Amenities: Clean interiors, improved seats, and improved safety features
Detailed Route and Timings
Chhapra–Anand Vihar Terminal (Delhi) Amrit Bharat Express (Train No. 05133):
- Departs Chhapra: 11:00 AM
- Departs Siwan: 12:00 PM
- Departs Thawe: 12:35 PM
Key En Route Stops:
- Tamkuhi Road
- Padrauna
- Kaptanganj
- Gorakhpur
- Khalilabad
- Basti
- Babhnan
- Mankapur
- Gonda
- Barabanki
- Badshahnagar
- Aishbagh
- Kanpur Central
- Etawah (next day)
Arrival Anand Vihar Terminal, Delhi: 8:00 AM (next day)
The schedule optimally connects Eastern UP and Bihar’s main travel corridors, completing the journey in under 21 hours, which is considered efficient for a non-AC premium express.
Passenger Benefits and Strategic Impact
1. Affordable Long-Distance Travel
The train serves a crucial demand among Bihar and UP’s vast migrant and salaried population, offering affordable direct connectivity with the National Capital Region. Non-AC but “premium” means cleaner rakes, improved punctuality, and better safety than standard express trains—without the higher fare of AC coaches.
2. Capacity and Network Expansion
With 22 coaches, the Amrit Bharat Express significantly increases passenger capacity, reducing overload on regular trains. The inclusion of both sleeper and general coaches gives flexible options for families, laborers, and working professionals.
3. Convenience and Comfort
The addition of a pantry, improved coach design, upgraded lighting, and better accommodations underscore the government’s focus on making train journeys both practical and comfortable for the masses. Timings complement various transit needs—travelers can board post-breakfast from Chhapra/Siwan and reach Delhi by the next morning.
Wider Network Developments
On the same day, a Darbhanga-Madar (Ajmer) Amrit Bharat special was also launched (Train No. 05587), catering to Bihar-Rajasthan passengers and further illustrating Indian Railways’ expansion. Both trains are non-AC premium services, focused on offering better travel experiences without breaking the bank.
Other Recent Railway Updates for Bihar:
- Nawada-Patna Fast Passenger: Inaugurated to connect Nawada, Sheikhpura, Bihar Sharif, and state capital Patna. This addresses a long-standing demand and simplifies access to major cities.
- Increased focus on passenger-friendly innovations, punctual scheduling, and expanded routes.
The Inaugural Ceremony & Public Response
The first Amrit Bharat Express departure witnessed local fanfare, with special launch ceremonies and community participation at several stations. Notably, the emphasis was on:
- Digital Flag-off: Deputy Chief Minister and senior railway officials flagged off the train via video conferencing, underscoring the state’s commitment to digital and transportation growth.
- Public Excitement: The new service was welcomed enthusiastically by passengers, local business owners, and commuting students, all eager for better and cheaper connections to Delhi.
What Makes Amrit Bharat Express Special?
- Middle-Class Focus: By forgoing air-conditioning, the service remains accessible, economical, and inclusive for the bulk of train travelers in Bihar and UP.
- Safety and Cleanliness: Enhanced vigilance, improved sanitation, and modernized coaches set a new standard for non-AC train travel.
- Strategic Route Planning: Linking Siwan, Chhapra, Gorakhpur, Kanpur, and Delhi on a single route eases crowding on other services and opens new travel possibilities.
Schedule and Future Prospects
The success and passenger feedback from the inaugural trips will guide scheduling frequency and potential timetable tweaks. Amrit Bharat Express is expected to run regularly, with fare, reservation, and schedule details soon available at all railway booking counters and IRCTC online platforms.
Indian Railways’ continued push toward expanding quality, comfort, and affordability underlies this development, marking a new era for Bihar and adjoining states’ rail networks.
Siwan-Delhi Amrit Bharat Express
The launch of the Siwan-Delhi Amrit Bharat Express is a transformative milestone for the region, promising safe, economical, and dignified travel for lakhs of families, workers, and students every month. This initiative reflects the government’s vision for rapid rail modernization that prioritizes middle-class needs and regional progress.
Whether you’re a regular commuter, a student, a businessperson, or visiting family in the capital, the Amrit Bharat Express is set to become a preferred option for 2025 and beyond—combining tradition, innovation, and the promise of a faster, more comfortable journey between Bihar and Delhi.