Indian Railways continuously works towards making train travel affordable and accessible to all. While premium trains like Vande Bharat and Rajdhani Express offer high-end facilities at steep prices, there's an alternative that provides similar comfort at a fraction of the cost. One such train is the Garib Rath Express, a fully air-conditioned (AC) train designed to offer luxury travel at budget-friendly fares.
Railway fares are typically determined based on the facilities and services provided. Trains with air-conditioned coaches, better amenities, and high-speed travel generally come with a hefty price tag. Among the most expensive options are the AC coaches in the Vande Bharat and Rajdhani Express trains, which cater to passengers seeking premium travel experiences. However, Garib Rath Express stands out as an exception, offering AC travel at an incredibly affordable rate.
The Garib Rath Express is often considered a "Rajdhani for the poor," as it provides a fully air-conditioned experience at significantly lower fares. Running on multiple routes, one of its prominent journeys is between Chennai and Delhi Hazrat Nizamuddin. The most remarkable aspect of this train is its unbeatable pricing—passengers can book an AC seat for just 68 paise per kilometer, making it one of the most economical air-conditioned train options in the country.
Despite its budget-friendly fares, Garib Rath Express does not lag behind in terms of speed. The Vande Bharat Express is known for its high-speed performance, clocking an average speed of 66 to 96 km per hour. In comparison, the Garib Rath Express maintains a commendable average speed of 70 to 75 km per hour, ensuring a swift and comfortable journey for passengers.
The primary reason behind launching Garib Rath Express was to make air-conditioned travel accessible to middle and lower-income groups. Before its introduction, traveling in an AC coach was often a luxury reserved for those who could afford the high fares of Rajdhani Express or other premium trains. Garib Rath bridged this gap by offering affordable AC train travel without compromising on comfort, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
With the rising popularity of high-speed and luxury trains, affordability often becomes a challenge for many passengers. Garib Rath Express ensures that even those with limited financial means can enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned train travel. Running at competitive speeds and offering an unbeatable fare of just 68 paise per kilometer, this train proves that premium travel need not always come at a premium price. For passengers looking for a cost-effective yet comfortable journey, Garib Rath Express stands as the perfect alternative to high-end trains like Vande Bharat and Rajdhani Express.
