Gujarat’s first heritage train was flagged off by Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi on October 31, 2023

On October 31, 2023, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi flagged off Gujarat's first heritage train, which will transport visitors to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's memorial, the Statue of Unity, from Ahmedabad and vice-versa.

An electric engine that has been customised to resemble a steam locomotive will pull the three-coach heritage train. It will also have a sound system and foggers to simulate the sound of steam.

Ekta Nagar, also known as Kevadiya, is in the Narmada district. "The train is a blend of heritage and modern facilities," said Mr. Narendra Modi, while cutting the ribbon on the train during Ekta Divas celebrations.

The train has three 48-seat coaches, and visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and snacks in the 28-seater AC restaurant dining car, which has teak wood dining tables and two-seater cushioned sofas.

The Integrated Coach Factory in Perambur, Chennai, created the teak wood interiors for all of the coaches. The first effort to operate rail services was made in 1862 by Khanderao Gaekwad, the ruler of Baroda State at the time. Vadodara has a rich history with railroads. On an eight-mile route between Dabhoi and Miyagam, the trains were dragged by oxen in the past. By 1880, locomotives were being utilised frequently on the route.

The train will leave Ahmedabad and arrive at Ekta Nagar, the Kevadia railway station that is home to the Statue of Unity in the Sardar Sarovar dam's reservoir. The train will leave Ekta Nagar on its return trip and arrive in Ahmedabad five minutes after midnight.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.