Barnala: The Union government has approved an additional stop for the Ferozepur–Delhi Vande Bharat Express at Barnala, a move expected to significantly improve rail connectivity for several districts in central Punjab. The decision was confirmed on Wednesday by Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu.
Speaking to reporters in the Parliament House complex, Bittu said the proposal for a Barnala halt had received broad political backing and was raised by representatives cutting across party lines. He noted that leaders from the Aam Aadmi Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party had jointly pressed the case, citing long-standing public demand.
Among those who sought the stoppage were AAP MP from Sangrur Meet Hayer, AAP Rajya Sabha member Rajender Gupta and BJP leader Kewal Singh Dhillon. Their combined efforts, Bittu said, helped expedite the approval.
“I had made it clear within my party that I would not return to Punjab until the Barnala stop was cleared,” the minister said, adding that he was pleased the final approval had now been granted. “This decision will benefit not just Barnala but also nearby districts like Mansa, Malerkotla and Sangrur.”
The addition of the stop is expected to provide faster and more convenient access to Delhi for residents of the region, while also supporting local trade, business travel and economic activity. The Vande Bharat Express, known for its high speed and modern amenities, has already become a preferred option for intercity travel, and the new halt is likely to increase its utility in Punjab.
Railway officials said further details on the implementation date and revised schedule would be announced soon.
