On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flagged off two new weekly Amrit Bharat Express trains from the BLW ground in Varanasi, India. The Banaras–Hadapsar (Pune) and Ayodhya–Mumbai (Lokmanya Tilak Terminus) services are designed to improve connectivity between Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, particularly benefitting pilgrims and daily commuters. The Banaras–Pune train will facilitate access to the Kashi Vishwanath Dham, while the Ayodhya–Mumbai service will strengthen links to the Shri Ram Mandir Teerth Kshetra. Officials highlighted that these trains will provide affordable, high-speed travel options, eliminating the need for passengers to change trains. During the event, six distinct Geographical Indication (GI) registered handicrafts from Banaras were presented to the Prime Minister, showcasing the region's artistry and cultural heritage.