In a major development for residents of Khurja, Uttar Pradesh, the Ministry of Railways has approved a stop for the Vande Bharat Express at Khurja Junction. The news has brought immense joy to the locals, as this will significantly improve connectivity to major cities like Kanpur, Lucknow, and Ayodhya.

When Will Vande Bharat Start Stopping at Khurja?

According to Gautam Buddh Nagar MP Dr. Mahesh Sharma, the official proposal to include a halt at Khurja Junction was submitted to the Ministry of Railways on 24 March 2025. The ministry has now approved the proposal, and the stoppage at Khurja is expected to begin in the coming days.

What Were the Demands in the Proposal?

The proposal submitted included 13 key demands aimed at improving railway infrastructure and services in the region. These included:

• Renovation of Khurja City Railway Station

• Construction of a halt at Dharpa Railway Crossing

• Request for the Delhi-Lucknow Shatabdi Express to stop at Khurja

• Introduction of a Khurja to Haridwar train

To support this proposal, Dr. Mahesh Sharma visited the Ministry along with Khurja MLA Meenakshi Singh and Municipal Chairman’s husband Bhagwandas Singhal.

Why Is the Vande Bharat Stop Important for Khurja?

The addition of a Vande Bharat stop at Khurja Junction is seen as a significant upgrade for the city’s railway connectivity. Now, residents can conveniently travel to religious and commercial hubs like Ayodhya, Lucknow, and Kanpur without needing to travel to larger junctions first.

Where Was the First Vande Bharat Train Launched?

The first Vande Bharat Express in India was flagged off from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It ran between Varanasi and Delhi, passing through Prayagraj and Kanpur.

Currently, two Vande Bharat trains operate between Varanasi and Delhi — one in each direction during morning and afternoon hours. Additionally, services have expanded to include routes like Agra to Varanasi and a new line to Ayodhya after the inauguration of the Ram Mandir.

How Will This Impact Travel in Western UP?

The Vande Bharat halt at Khurja is expected to boost tourism, trade, and daily commuting options for the residents of Western Uttar Pradesh. It is a step toward inclusive development and providing world-class travel facilities to smaller cities and towns.