Gandhinagar, August 3 (HS): Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated a new weekly train service from Bhavnagar to Ayodhya on Sunday at the Bhavnagar railway station, attended by Union Minister Mansukhbhai Mandaviya, Union Minister of State Nimuben Bambania, legislators, and local officials.

Vaishnaw emphasized that the direct train service will greatly benefit thousands of devotees traveling to the holy site of Ayodhya, marking a significant advancement in Gujarat's railway development. This initiative addresses the needs of the Bhavnagar population, enhancing convenience for travelers, tourists, and business commuters, thereby boosting economic activities and tourism, and generating job opportunities.

Mandaviya reiterated the government's commitment to improving connectivity to North India’s religious sites, while Bambania described the train as a blessing for her constituency and Saurashtra. The Bhavnagar Terminus–Ayodhya Cantt Express (train number 19201) will commence regular operations on August 11, 2025, departing Bhavnagar every Monday at 1:50 PM and reaching Ayodhya the next day at 6:30 PM. Conversely, the Ayodhya Cantt–Bhavnagar Terminus Express (train number 19202) departs every Tuesday at 10:30 PM, arriving in Bhavnagar on Thursday at 4:45 AM.

The train will feature multiple classes, including AC and sleeper coaches, and will stop at various stations en route. The launch of this train has been met with enthusiasm from local representatives and residents, heralding a new era in Bhavnagar's development and religious tourism.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar