Assam Governor attends flagging off of Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
The train to provide fresh impetus to tourism, trade, education and cultural exchange: Governor
Guwahati,Rongili Barta: Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya today attended the flagging off ceremony of the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train of Indian Railways, which has been flagged off by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi from Malda Town in West Bengal. The inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will operate between Howrah in West Bengal and Kamakhya in Assam. Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma was also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Shri Acharya described the inauguration as a moment of immense joy and pride, and extended his heartfelt congratulations to Indian Railways. He said that when an ultra-modern train like the Vande Bharat Sleeper rolls its journey from the sacred land of Maa Kamakhya, it powerfully conveys the message that India’s progress never distances itself from its roots. He said, “This initiative of starting the first Vande Bharat sleeper train between Guwahati and Howrah is a living embodiment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Development as well as Heritage,” where modern technology moves forward with respect for faith and tradition.
The Governor said that the inauguration of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express from Kamakhya is a strong symbol of modern India’s progress, self-confidence, and inclusive development. Hailing Prime Minister’s visionary leadership, he said that the Prime Minister’s special affection and commitment towards Northeast India are clearly reflected in concrete actions and transformative projects, of which this train service is a shining example.
Governor Shri Acharya said that the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is an integral part of the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” where every region and every citizen progresses at the same pace. The train will cover the nearly 972-kilometre distance between Kamakhya and Kolkata in about 14 hours, offering passengers a safe, comfortable and time-efficient travel experience. He added that the service will provide fresh impetus to tourism, trade, education and cultural exchange in Assam and the Northeast.
Highlighting Assam’s strategic importance, the Governor said that the state is not only the gateway to Northeast India but also a vital link to Southeast Asia, making a strong railway network essential for its economic, social and strategic development. He referred to the recent inauguration of Haibargaon Railway Station by the Prime Minister another symbol of this transformative vision.
He further noted that Indian Railways is advancing with the Prime Minister’s mantra of “Safety First,” through initiatives such as the indigenous ‘Kavach’ safety system, automatic signalling, and AI-based warning systems for elephant safety, ensuring that development goes hand in hand with protection of human life and the environment.
The Governor also acknowledged the significant role played by Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma in advancing railway and infrastructure development in Assam. He said that under the Chief Minister’s leadership, the state has made notable progress through people-centric and development-oriented initiatives that are bringing tangible change to the lives of citizens.
Governor Shri Acharya said that Assam’s tradition and progress are moving forward together, and the inauguration of the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train from the sacred land of Kamakhya beautifully reflects this spirit. He expressed special satisfaction that the train also celebrates the cultural essence of the region, with Assamese and Bengali cuisine being served onboard, in keeping with the traditions of “Atithi Devo Bhava” and the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local.’
Minister of State for External affairs and Textile Pabitra Margherita, Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, MPs Bijulee Kalita Medhi, Pradan Barua, Bhubaneswar Kalita along with a host of other dignitaries were present on the occasion.