Ramnagar–Dehradun Express Launched, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Flag Off New Train Service Virtually
Dehradun: Strengthening rail connectivity in Uttarakhand, the Ramnagar–Dehradun Express officially commenced regular operations on Saturday. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw jointly flagged off the new train service through a virtual ceremony.
The train will initially operate twice a week, with the Railway Ministry indicating that the service may be upgraded to a daily operation depending on passenger demand.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami described the launch as a significant milestone in Uttarakhand’s development journey. He said the train would serve as a vital lifeline connecting the Kumaon and Garhwal regions, enhancing regional connectivity, economic opportunities, tourism, and public convenience.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Chief Minister said the rapid expansion of railway infrastructure in Uttarakhand reflects the Prime Minister’s vision for modern and inclusive development.
The Ramnagar–Dehradun Express will run via Kashipur, Roshanpur, Pipalsana, Moradabad, Najibabad, and Haridwar, providing seamless rail connectivity between Kumaon and Garhwal while also benefiting passengers from western Uttar Pradesh.
Dhami said the new service would offer safe, affordable, and time-efficient travel for students, tourists, traders, employees, and other commuters, while also boosting regional commerce and tourism.
Highlighting the transformation of Indian Railways, the Chief Minister said that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the rail network has entered a new era marked by enhanced safety, faster services, advanced technology, and improved passenger amenities. He noted that indigenous trains such as Vande Bharat and Namo Bharat have become symbols of India’s technological progress and self-reliance.
He also informed that the ambitious Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Rail Project is in its final phase and is expected to significantly improve religious tourism, economic growth, and connectivity in the hill state.
According to the Chief Minister, Uttarakhand has already received two Vande Bharat trains, while the state has been allocated a record ₹4,769 crore railway budget for 2026–27. Railway projects worth nearly ₹39,000 crore are currently under various stages of implementation in the state.
Daily Operations Possible in Future
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the Ramnagar–Dehradun Express would strengthen regional connectivity and support economic growth and tourism in Uttarakhand.
He announced that if passenger demand increases, the train could be converted into a daily service. Calling it a bridge between Garhwal and Kumaon, he said the new train would benefit thousands of passengers travelling within the state and adjoining regions.
Vaishnaw also praised Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for his efforts in expanding railway infrastructure in Uttarakhand. He stated that since 2023, the Ministry of Railways has introduced or extended 20 major regular train services connecting Uttarakhand with various parts of the country.
He added that 11 railway stations in Uttarakhand are currently being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, providing modern passenger facilities and upgraded infrastructure.
The virtual inauguration ceremony was attended by Haridwar MP Trivendra Singh Rawat, Garhwal MP Anil Baluni, MLAs Diwan Singh Bisht and Arvind Pandey, along with senior railway officials and other dignitaries.
