India’s First Live Heart Transported by Vande Bharat

Divisional Railway Manager (Ahmedabad) Ved Prakash described the operation as a significant moment for the organisation. “This is a moment of immense pride and satisfaction for Indian Railways that a live heart has been safely and timely transported from Surat to Ahmedabad through the Vande Bharat Express. Every moment is crucial in such lifesaving missions. The excellent coordination between Indian Railways, the RPF, Gujarat State Police and the medical teams made this mission successful. For us, playing a role in saving a person’s life is not merely a responsibility, but the highest duty of service and humanity,” he said.

According to the railway administration, the speed, punctuality and reliability of the Vande Bharat Express were critical factors in allowing the organ to reach its destination within the limited time available for transplantation. The mission involved multiple departments of Indian Railways, along with doctors, organ transplant coordinators, Railway Protection Force personnel, Gujarat State Police officers and other officials.

Authorities stated that the close coordination among all participating agencies ensured the successful completion of the time-sensitive operation. The transport marks the first reported instance in India of a live heart being moved by train for transplantation, expanding the role of the railway network in supporting emergency medical logistics alongside its regular passenger and freight services.