Bhubaneswar, Odisha – May 16, 2025 In response to the growing demand for faster and more comfortable rail travel between Howrah and Puri, Indian Railways has announced 25% augmentation of 22895/22896 Howrah-Puri Vande Bharat Express with additional coaches. Starting today, the train will operate with 20 coaches, in place of earlier 16, adding four additional AC Chair Car Coaches.
This augmentation includes the addition of four AC Chair Car Coaches, aimed at accommodating the growing number of passengers traveling on this prestigious semi-high-speed train service. The upgraded rake composition will now consist of 16 AC Chair Car Coaches, 2 Executive Chair Car Coaches and 2 Crew & AC Chair Car Coaches.
The decision to augment the train was made after a thorough review of passenger patronization and travel demand, highlighting the Puri–Howrah Vande Bharat Express as one of the most sought-after routes for both daily commuters and tourists. The enhanced capacity is expected to improve travel convenience, reduce waitlists and further popularize this premium train service.
Patronisation of the train has seen a significant increase since its inception. Initially operating with an occupancy rate of 70–80%, the train has now reached an impressive patronisation level of over 110%. Currently, Train No. 22895 (Howrah–Puri) records 110.9% occupancy, while Train No. 22896 (Puri–Howrah) sees 109.2%. Specifically, patronage in AC Chair Car classes stands at 110.65%, and 103.19% in Executive Chair Car coaches.
Passengers have overwhelmingly welcomed the augmentation, as more number of passengers can now avail the services of the prestigious train. Many regular commuters and tourists have shared positive feedback on social media and railway feedback portals, appreciating Indian Railways’ responsiveness and sensitiveness to public demand. Enhanced coach capacity has also been applauded by public representatives, who have actively advocated for this upgrade in recent months.
The Puri–Howrah Vande Bharat Express is a semi-high-speed train that connects Howrah Junction in West Bengal to Puri in Odisha, covering a distance of 500 km in approximately 6.5 hours. The train operates six days a week, except Thursdays, with departures from Howrah at 6:10 am and from Puri at 1:50 pm. This train provide stoppages at seven stations: Khurda Road Junction, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Jajpur Keonjhar Road, Bhadrak, Balasore, and Kharagpur Junction.
The Vande Bharat Express features state-of-the-art amenities, including onboard Wi-Fi, infotainment systems, bio-vacuum toilets and comfortable seating arrangements. The train is designed to provide a safe and comfortable travel experience for passengers. The augmentation of the Howrah-Puri Vande Bharat Express is a testament to Indian Railways’ commitment to enhancing passenger services and meeting the growing demand for efficient and comfortable rail travel.
