Vijayawada

Rail connectivity in coastal Andhra Pradesh received a boost on Monday with the extension of the MGR Chennai Central–Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express up to Narsapur, railway officials said.

Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Steel B Srinivasa Varma formally flagged off the extended Vande Bharat service from Narsapur railway station in West Godavari district.

Calling the move significant for the region, Varma said the decision reflects the Centre’s focus on improving modern rail services and strengthening last-mile connectivity. He pointed out that the inclusion of Narsapur, despite it being located on a branch line, is a landmark step for Indian Railways.

With the extension, the semi-high-speed train will now stop at Gudivada Junction and Bhimavaram Town before terminating at Narsapur. Officials noted that this marks the first instance of a Vande Bharat Express operating on a branch line route.

The minister said the extended service would serve as a faster alternative to the Circar Express, cutting travel time between Narsapur and Chennai to around nine hours. The development is expected to benefit passengers travelling for work, education, healthcare, and other purposes.

Varma also said that efforts are underway to further enhance railway infrastructure in the region. These include adding more express train stoppages and accelerating the construction of road overbridges and underbridges to improve passenger safety and ease of movement.

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The extension is expected to significantly improve travel convenience for residents of West Godavari and neighbouring districts.