Bhubaneswar: Indian Railways introduced the Santragachi (Kolkata) – Tambaram (Chennai) Amrit Bharat Express, marking another significant milestone in its journey towards modern, affordable, and inclusive rail connectivity.
The inaugural service was flagged off today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signifying the launch of a vital long distance rail service connecting Eastern India with Southern India.
The introduction of this Amrit Bharat Express establishes a strong new rail corridor linking West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, thereby significantly enhancing inter regional rail connectivity. The service will be particularly beneficial for Odisha, as it provides faster and more comfortable access to multiple parts of the country through improved rail integration.
For the people of Odisha, this train will serve as an important mobility link to major urban, commercial, educational, and healthcare hubs across Eastern and Southern India. The service is expected to greatly benefit passengers travelling for medical treatment, education, employment, tourism, and pilgrimage, especially to cities such as Chennai and Kolkata, which are major centres for advanced medical care and economic activities.
The Amrit Bharat Express, operating with modern LHB coaches and advanced push–pull technology, offers improved speed, smoother operations, and enhanced passenger comfort. The train is equipped with several modern passenger amenities, including ergonomically designed berths, modular toilets, LED lighting, CCTV surveillance, and mobile charging facilities, ensuring a safe and comfortable travel experience.
Inaugural Train Details—
Train No. 06108 Santragachi (Kolkata) – Tambaram (Chennai) Amrit Bharat Express departed from Santragachi today (Sunday, 18th January 2026) at 14:45 hrs and will arrive at Tambaram at 18:45 hrs on the following day.
Under the jurisdiction of East Coast Railway, the train passes through key stations in Odisha including Bhadrak, Jajpur Keonjhar Road, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Khurda Road, Balugaon, Brahmapur, and Palasa, thereby providing direct long-distance connectivity to several important districts of the State.
Other Stoppages
Kharagpur, Baleshwar, Ranital, Srikakulam Road, Kottavalasa, Vizianagaram, Duvvada, Pendurti, Simhachalam North, Anakapalle, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Eluru, Vijayawada, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Sullurupeta, and Chennai Egmore.
Coach Composition
The train consists of 22 coaches, including:
- General Second Class Sitting – 11 coaches
- Sleeper Class – 08 coaches
- Second Class-cum-Luggage Van – 02 coaches
- Pantry Car – 01 coach
Details regarding regular services of this train will be notified separately.
The introduction of the Santragachi (Kolkata) – Tambaram (Chennai) Amrit Bharat Express is not merely the launch of a new train service, but a major step towards providing the people of Odisha and neighbouring States with a faster, safer, and more affordable long distance travel option.
With its modern design, energy efficient LHB coaches, and affordable fares, the service will especially benefit middle class passengers from Odisha, promote tourism to and from the State, facilitate medical travel, and strengthen connectivity with different regions of the country. The initiative reflects Indian Railways’ continued commitment to passenger centric development, regional integration, and inclusive national growth.
