New Train Service Aims to Link Rajasthan and Gujarat; Inaugural Timings Emerge
The Udaipur-Asarva Vande Bharat Express, a new semi-high-speed train service, is set to begin its inaugural run, connecting Udaipur City in Rajasthan with Asarva in Gujarat. This service is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two cities and improve regional connectivity. The launch date is confirmed for February 16, 2026, with the inaugural journey operating as a special service before regular operations commence. Reports indicate the train will feature 8 coaches, including AC chair car and executive chair car, designed for enhanced passenger comfort.

Operational Details and Stoppages
The Udaipur-Asarva Vande Bharat Express is poised to offer a swifter transit between its origin and destination.

The total distance covered is 296 km.
The planned journey time for the regular service is approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, a considerable reduction from current rail travel.
Stoppages identified include Jawer station, Dungarpur station, and Himmatnagar station in Gujarat.
Regular operations are slated to begin on Wednesday, with the train running six days a week, excluding Tuesdays.
Inaugural Run Schedule: Varied Reports Emerge
While the commencement of the inaugural run is consistent across reports, specific timings for this special service present some variations.
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One report indicates the inaugural special train will depart Udaipur City at 12:25 hrs on February 16, 2026, designated as train number 09663. This special run is estimated to take approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes.
Another report confirms the inaugural run from Udaipur City at 12:25 hrs, arriving at Asarva at 17:15 hrs.
Conversely, regular service timings suggest a departure from Udaipur City at 6:10 AM and arrival at Asarva at 10:25 AM for train number 26963.
The return journey, train number 26964, is indicated to depart Asarva at 5:45 PM and arrive at Udaipur City at 10:00 PM.
New Corridor for Western Railway
This new Vande Bharat service marks an expansion for Western Railway, providing Gujarat with its sixth Vande Bharat train. The introduction of this high-speed corridor is anticipated to benefit a diverse range of passengers, including those traveling for business, education, and personal reasons, by offering a more efficient and comfortable travel experience.
Official Acknowledgment and Impact
The development has been acknowledged by local representatives, with Udaipur MP Dr Mannalal Rawat expressing gratitude for the initiative, attributing it to efforts by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The enhanced connectivity is expected to bolster economic and educational ties between the two states.
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Sources Used:
Indian Express: Published on Feb 16, 2026. Details inaugural run timings and general service information.https://indianexpress.com/article/india/udaipur-asarva-vande-bharat-train-to-commence-inaugural-run-today-check-stoppages-timings-10533894/
The Times of India: Published on Feb 15, 2026. Confirms the train announcement, provides regular service timings, and mentions the coach composition.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/asarva-udaipur-city-vande-bharat-announced/articleshow/128358176.cms
The Financial Express: Published on Feb 14, 2026. Highlights the sharp reduction in travel time and provides train numbers and scheduled departure/arrival times for regular service.https://www.financialexpress.com/business/railways-udaipur-asarva-vande-bharat-travel-time-between-udaipur-and-ahmedabad-to-reduce-sharply-check-train-schedule-and-timings-4142323/
Udaipur Kiran: Published on Feb 11, 2026. States the launch date and mentions key intermediate stations.https://udaipurkiran.com/vande-bharat-train-to-run-from-udaipur-to-asarwa-from-feb-16/
India.com: Published on Feb 15, 2026. Emphasizes the reduced travel time and potential passenger benefits, providing route details and train numbers.https://www.india.com/news/india/udaipur-ahemdabad-4-hours-indian-railways-new-udaipur-asarwa-vande-bharat-express-check-route-details-stoppages-time-table-ministry-of-railways-gujarat-rajasthan-8306705/