Kolkata, May 17 (UNI) Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar on Saturday thanked Railways minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for augmenting four more coaches to 20 to the existing Howrah-Puri-Howrah Vande Bharat to accommodate more passengers.

In view of growing demand for faster and more comfortable rail travel between Howrah and Puri, Indian Railways has announced 25 per cent augmentation of 22895/22896 Howrah-Puri Vande Bharat Express with additional coaches, the East Coast Railway has informed on Friday, the day such facility was unveiled for the commuters.

"Heartfelt thanks to Indian Railways and Union Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, " Majumdar, who is also the BJP's West Bengal unit president said.

" This is a big gift to Bengal and devotees of Mahaprabhu Jagannath! A 25 percent augmentation in Howrah–Puri Vande Bharat Express has been announced — a major step towards faster, more comfortable travel, he said.

The Vande Bharat on the Howrah–Puri route will run with 20 coaches instead of 16. That means 4 new AC Chair Car coaches added — easing the rush and long waitlists during weekends, holidays and festivals, Majumdar said.

" This move comes after analyzing rising demand from commuters, pilgrims and tourists alike. The Puri–Howrah route is not just a rail link — it’s an emotional connection between Bengal and the abode of Mahaprabhu Jagannath Dev.

" This is amazing news for Bengalis who love visiting Puri — for the beach, for peace, and for the divine darshan at Jagannath Dham. With enhanced capacity, Vande Bharat becomes even more accessible, efficient, and inclusive. Once again, thank you to Ashwini Vaishnaw ji for responding to the people's needs. This is governance that listens. Jai Jagannath!," Majumdar concluded.

The augmented rake composition now includes 16 AC chair car coaches, 2 executive chair car coaches, and 2 crew & AC chair car coaches,

UNI PC BM