Pakistan’s Fastest Train Karakoram Express and India’s Vande Bharat; Which One is Faster and More Advanced?

India’s railway system, the fourth largest in the world, boasts some of the fastest and most advanced trains, including the Vande Bharat Express. With a top speed of 180 km/h and an operational speed of 160 km/h, the Vande Bharat has set a high benchmark for speed and comfort in the region. But how does Pakistan’s fastest train, the Karakoram Express, compare? Let’s dive into the details.

The Karakoram Express, Pakistan’s pride, operates daily between Karachi and Lahore, covering a distance of 1,241 km in approximately 18 hours. Named after the Karakoram mountain range, this train is a symbol of national connectivity.

However, with a top speed of 105 km/h, it lags far behind India’s Vande Bharat in terms of speed. Not Just speed, Vande Bharat trains are equipped with latest traction technology. The trainsets are self-propelling Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) with eight, sixteen or twenty coaches. This gives the trains faster acceleration and a much smoother ride. The coaches of Vande Bharat trains are custom built for comfort and styling. Its 360 degree swivel seats and panoramic windows make the journey enjoyable. All these features put these trains on par with European trains in terms of safety and comfort.

Launched on August 14, 2002, during Pervez Musharraf’s administration, the Karakoram Express was part of a broader effort to modernize Pakistan Railways. The train consists of 13 economy class coaches, 4 air-conditioned business class coaches, a power van, and a luggage van. While it offers a reliable service, its speed and infrastructure highlight the gap between the two nations’ rail systems.

The Karachi–Peshawar main line, along with the Khanewal–Wazirabad and Shahdara Bagh–Sangla Hill branch lines, form the route for the Karakoram Express. Despite its slower pace, the train remains a vital lifeline for thousands of passengers traveling between two of Pakistan’s most important cities.

While the Karakoram Express holds its own in terms of cultural significance and connectivity, it’s clear that India’s Vande Bharat Express is in a league of its own when it comes to speed and modern amenities. The competition between these two trains reflects the broader dynamics of rail development in South Asia, where infrastructure and innovation continue to evolve at different paces.