Chennai, June 24: The popularity of Vande Bharat Express trains continues to grow across southern India. According to official data, Vande Bharat services under Southern Railway carried 15.21 lakh passengers during April and May 2026, generating Rs 162.96 crore in revenue.
The strong performance highlights the increasing demand for premium semi-high-speed rail travel across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Vande Bharat Trains Revenue Sees Strong Growth
Southern Railway reported a sharp increase in both passenger numbers and earnings compared to the same period last year. During April-May 2025, Vande Bharat trains generated Rs 119.52 crore in revenue and carried 11.41 lakh passengers. In the corresponding period of 2026, revenue rose to Rs 162.96 crore, while passenger numbers increased to 15.21 lakh.
Railway officials attributed the growth to consistently high occupancy levels and improved booking options for passengers.
Current Booking Facility Boosts Passenger Numbers
Officials said the success of the Current Booking Facility played a major role in attracting more passengers.
The facility allows travellers to book vacant seats up to 15 minutes before departure. Passengers can make these bookings not only at the originating station but also at stations along the route. The initiative has made last-minute travel easier and helped ensure better seat utilisation across Vande Bharat services.
Revenue from Current Booking Doubles
The number of passengers using the Current Booking Facility increased significantly over the past year. Official figures show that passengers travelling through the facility rose from 61,990 in April-May 2025 to 1,39,817 in April-May 2026. Revenue generated through the scheme also increased from Rs 4.44 crore to Rs 10.13 crore during the same period.
Vande Bharat Services Gain Popularity Across Southern States
At present, 17 Vande Bharat trains operate under Southern Railway, connecting major cities across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
The trains have gained popularity for their speed, comfort, modern facilities, and improved connectivity between key urban centres. Railway officials believe the continued rise in passenger numbers and revenue reflects the growing preference for Vande Bharat services among travellers in southern India.
Outlook for Vande Bharat Trains
With increasing demand and strong occupancy levels, Southern Railway expects Vande Bharat services to continue attracting more passengers in the coming months. The success of the Current Booking Facility and expanding passenger base could further strengthen Vande Bharat Trains Revenue and support future rail modernisation efforts across the region.