Ravneet Bittu announces Delhi–Amritsar Vande Bharat sleeper for next winter, lays stone of Doraha ROB
PTC Web Desk: Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Bittu has announced that an exclusive Vande Bharat sleeper train will begin operations between Delhi and Amritsar next winter, providing a major boost to rail connectivity in Punjab.
The proposed service will run through Chandigarh, Ludhiana and Jalandhar, offering a faster and more comfortable overnight travel option for passengers commuting between the national capital and the holy city. The minister said preparations are underway to facilitate the launch of the premium sleeper service.
To support the new train, land has been identified at Ladhowal near Ludhiana for the construction of a dedicated loco shed. The facility is considered essential at terminal points for maintenance and operational readiness of long-distance trains.
Bittu made the announcement while visiting Doraha in Ludhiana district, where he laid the foundation stone of a long-awaited Railway Overbridge (ROB) aimed at easing chronic traffic congestion in the area. The overbridge will connect Doraha with Neelon and is expected to significantly improve daily commuting for residents.
The project, which had been pending for several years due to administrative hurdles, is now set to move forward. Once completed, the ROB will decongest the busy level crossing and strengthen connectivity between Chandigarh and key towns of the Malwa region.
The foundation ceremony took place at Level Crossing No. 164-AB near Doraha railway station in the presence of senior officials from Northern Railway and local representatives. Officials said the overbridge would enhance safety for motorists and pedestrians by reducing wait times and eliminating frequent traffic bottlenecks.
- PTC NEWS