In a noteworthy development for Aravalli district, the Ministry of Railways has announced that the Vande Bharat Express will now make a stop at Shamlaji Road railway station on the Ahmedabad-Udaipur route. This decision comes after MP Shobhanaben M. Baraiya pushed for the halt, emphasizing the religious significance of Shamlaji Temple and the influx of devotees visiting every year.
The train numbers 26963 and 26964, which operate between Udaipur City and Asarwa, are set to include this new stop. While this move is expected to cut down travel time significantly for pilgrims heading to one of North Gujarat’s key religious sites, exact timings for the halt are still pending confirmation from railway authorities.
In her correspondence with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw dated February 12, Baraiya highlighted that many residents of Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts often journey to Shamlaji Temple. She argued that improved rail access would not only aid in accommodating more visitors but also enhance local tourism.
On March 3, the Railway Ministry responded favorably to her request, stating that this change was made in public interest. By adding Shamlaji as its 22nd stop in Gujarat, the Vande Bharat Express aims to facilitate faster and more comfortable travel for both locals and those coming from Rajasthan.
This decision is poised to boost not only religious tourism but also economic activity in Aravalli district. With better access, local trade could see an uptick as more visitors explore both the temple and surrounding areas.