Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday flagged off the new Bhuj–Jalor–Pali–Delhi Express in Gujarat’s Bhuj, calling the project part of a broader transformation of Indian Railways aimed at improving connectivity and redesigning railway stations as cultural landmarks.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel attended the event virtually and congratulated railway officials on the launch of the new train service connecting Kutch region with Rajasthan and the national capital.

Addressing the gathering during the flag-off ceremony, Vaishnaw said the redevelopment of railway stations across India is being carried out in a way that reflects the local art, culture and architectural identity of each region.

“The station is built reflecting the art and culture of that region. Let me show you some photos of stations. This is Jaipur. Look, brothers. Now people will go to see the station just like they used to go see Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, or Amer Fort. Now they will go see the station,” the Railway Minister said while showcasing visuals of redeveloped stations during his speech.

Vaishnaw highlighted that the ongoing railway modernisation programme is not limited to transport infrastructure but is also focused on creating modern public spaces that represent India’s cultural diversity. He referred to redeveloped stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, which aims to upgrade hundreds of railway stations across the country with improved passenger facilities, modern architecture and region-specific designs.

The newly launched Bhuj–Jalor–Pali–Delhi Express is expected to strengthen rail connectivity between Gujarat, Rajasthan and Delhi, benefiting passengers, traders and tourists travelling across western India. Railway officials said the service would improve access for people from Kutch and nearby districts while also supporting business and tourism movement.

During the event, officials showcased station redevelopment projects and infrastructure upgrades being implemented across the Indian Railways network. Vaishnaw said stations are increasingly being designed as city landmarks rather than only transit points.

The minister also pointed to the redevelopment of Jaipur railway station, saying its architecture and aesthetics are being aligned with the heritage identity of Rajasthan’s capital city. He compared the evolving role of stations to famous tourist attractions such as Hawa Mahal and Amer Fort.

Indian Railways has been expanding infrastructure projects, introducing new train services and modernising stations under several central government initiatives over the past few years. Officials said the focus remains on passenger comfort, connectivity and regional cultural integration.

RailwayStation | Business Upturn

New Bhuj-Delhi Express flagged off as Ashwini Vaishnaw highlights railway station transformation