Ahmedabad-Asansol Weekly Express

The Ahmedabad–Asansol Weekly Express is a weekly Express train operated by the Western Railway zone of Indian Railways. It connects Ahmedabad Junction (ADI) in Gujarat with Asansol Junction (ASN) in West Bengal, covering a distance of approximately in about 40 hours and 10 minutes. The train operates with train numbers 19435 and 19436 and was inaugurated on 26 September 2021.

History

The Ahmedabad–Asansol Weekly Express was introduced to enhance connectivity between Ahmedabad, a major economic hub in western India, and Asansol, a key industrial and railway junction in eastern India. The train was launched to cater to the growing demand for direct travel options between Gujarat and the coal and steel belt of West Bengal. Linen services were restored on 4 August 2022, and from 21 December 2023, two sleeper coaches were replaced with Third AC Economy coaches to accommodate more passengers.

Route

The train traverses seven states—Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal—covering with 28 halts across 396 intermediate stations. Major stops include:

The route connects key cultural and industrial centers, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho and the industrial hub of Asansol.

Schedule

19435 : Departs Ahmedabad Junction at 00:35 IST on Thursdays and arrives at Asansol Junction at 20:45 IST on Fridays.19436 : Departs Asansol Junction at 19:45 IST on Sundays and arrives at Ahmedabad Junction at 11:50 IST on Tuesdays.

Coach composition

The train operates with 21 LHB coaches:

1 Second AC
4 Third AC
2 Third AC Economy
10 Sleeper
3 General Unreserved
1 Pantry Car
1 Brake Van
1 Power Car
1 End-on-Generator

The rake is shared with train numbers 19483/84 Ahmedabad - Barauni Express and undergoes primary maintenance at Kankaria and secondary maintenance at Asansol.

Loco Reversal

The train has a loco Reversal at Khajuraho.

Operations

The train is hauled by a Vadodara Loco Shed WAP-7 locomotive from Ahmedabad to Asansol and vice versa, ensuring high-speed and reliable performance.

Cultural impact

The train serves as a vital link for communities in Gujarat and West Bengal, facilitating travel for business, family visits, and tourism. It connects Ahmedabad, known for its Sabarmati Ashram and textile industry, with Asansol, a hub for coal mining and steel production. The route also supports pilgrims visiting Khajuraho and Patna, enhancing regional tourism.