Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Meerut-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express train on Saturday. Speaking via video conference, PM Modi emphasized the importance of rapid development in southern states to achieve India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He also noted that increased budget allocations for Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have strengthened rail transport in these regions. The Meerut City-Lucknow Vande Bharat train will reduce travel time between the two cities by about one hour compared to the current fastest train.
CM Yogi Adityanath’s Response
Following the inauguration, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised PM Modi, saying, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country’s economic, social, and cultural development journey continues. Today, the Prime Minister has gifted the nation with three new Vande Bharat Express trains, including the Meerut-Lucknow train. This gift will enhance connectivity, boost tourism, and promote trade. We are deeply grateful to the Prime Minister.”
Comments from Arun Govil
Arun Govil, BJP MP from Meerut, described the day as historic. He said, “Today, Meerut has received a wonderful gift from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Railway Minister. This will significantly boost development. I have long awaited train travel, and this new train will end my long wait when I travel from Meerut to Lucknow.”
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At the inauguration event at Meerut railway station, BJP National Vice-President Dr. Laxmikant Vajpayee, MP Arun Govil, State Minister Dr. Somendra Tomar, State Minister Dinesh Khatik, Mayor Harikant Ahluwalia, MLA Amit Agarwal, and former MP Rajendra Agarwal were also present.
