HYDERABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 15 flagged off the Vande Bharat Express train connecting Secunderabad with Visakhapatnam, virtually. The train will be the eighth Vande Bharat Express to be introduced by the Indian Railways and will be the first one connecting the two Teluguspeaking states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister referred to the festivities and said in this auspicious atmosphere, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are getting a grand gift which will connect the shared heritage of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. He also congratulated the people of the two states on the occasion.
Continuing with the reference of festivities that connect all parts of the country, the Prime Minister said India Indian Railways also connects by traversing the length and breadth of the country providing opportunity to understand, know and connect various parts of the country in the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
The Prime Minister pointed out that the Vande Bharat Express will greatly benefit both pilgrims and tourists and informed that the travel time between Secunderabad and Visakhapatnam will be further reduced. “Vande Bharat is a symbol of New India’s capability and resolve”, he said, adding, “It is a symbol of that India which has chosen the path of rapid development.”
The Prime Minister highlighted that the train reflects an India which is eager towards its dreams and aspirations, an India that wants to achieve its goal, an India that strives for excellence, an India that wants to deliver the best to its citizens, and an India that has broken the shackles of the mentality of slavery and heading towards atmanirbharta.
The Prime Minister also underlined the speed of work that is taking place with regard to Vande Bharat trains. He mentioned that within 15 days second Vande Bharat is operationalised this year and this indicates the speed of change on the ground.
He pointed to the direct link between connectivity and speed and their connection with Sabka Vikas. “Wherever there is Gati (speed), there is Pragati (Progress). Whenever progress takes place prosperity is assured”, said PM Modi.
