Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival in Malda ignited unparalleled joy, transforming the district into a carnival ground for the Vande Bharat Sleeper train’s historic launch. Residents, donning tricolors, thronged the station, their cheers resonating as a testament to collective national achievement.
In his keynote speech, the PM outlined the train’s role in ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ spotlighting its indigenous engineering that rivals global standards. Equipped with modern safety features like automatic doors and GPS-enabled systems, the train promises safer, faster overnight travel from Malda to Bengaluru.
The public response was overwhelming. ‘This is our pride, our future on tracks,’ declared farmer Shankar Mandal amid the festivities. The event featured live music, traditional dances, and stalls showcasing local crafts, drawing families and youth alike.
Strategic importance underscored the launch: Malda’s connectivity to tech hubs will spur investments and employment. With capacity for 1,000+ passengers, the service addresses surging demand post-pandemic. The PM interacted with railway staff, commending their efforts.
As the train chugged off to applause, optimism filled the air. This addition to the Vande Bharat fleet—now over 50 trains—signals accelerated rail modernization. Malda’s jubilant welcome not only celebrated the present but envisioned a connected tomorrow.