The Vaishali Express, which initially ran from Muzaffarpur to New Delhi, has undergone multiple route extensions, first to Barauni, then Saharsa, and now to Lalitgram. Following this latest extension, the train has lost its Superfast status and ISO certification.
A railway official explained that Superfast status is granted only to trains maintaining an average speed of over 50 km/h. While the train maintained this speed on earlier routes, the new starting point at Lalitgram has reduced its average speed below the required threshold, resulting in the revocation of the Superfast classification.
The change, however, brings a direct benefit to passengers. While the journey time to New Delhi remains unchanged, they will now pay the lower Express fare instead of the higher Superfast charges.
DRM Samastipur, Jyoti Prakash Mishra, confirmed the development, noting that earlier the Vaishali Express was monitored as a ‘Railway Board train’, but with successive route extensions, close attention from officials had decreased. The DRM has now issued strict directives to ensure the punctual operation of all trains, including the Vaishali Express.
This adjustment ensures passengers continue to enjoy a timely service while benefiting from reduced travel costs.