Indian Railways achieves first-ever heart transport by train

In a landmark achievement for healthcare and emergency medical logistics, Indian Railways has successfully transported a live donor heart by train for the first time in the country's history. The life-saving organ was carried from Surat to Ahmedabad aboard Train No. 20901 Mumbai Central–Gandhinagar Capital Vande Bharat Express, marking a significant milestone in the integration of rail transport with critical healthcare services.

Given the highly time-sensitive nature of organ transplantation, the operation required meticulous planning and flawless coordination among Indian Railways, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Gujarat Police, and medical teams.

Every stage of the mission was carefully synchronised to ensure the donor heart was transported safely from Surat to Ahmedabad and reached the U.N. Mehta Institute of Cardiology & Research Centre within the critical viability window, enabling a timely life-saving transplant and setting a new benchmark for organ transportation in the country.

A dedicated Green Corridor was established from Platform No. 1 of Ahmedabad Railway Station to the U.N. Mehta Institute of Cardiology & Research Centre through the coordinated efforts of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Gujarat Police. The specially secured route ensured the uninterrupted and swift transportation of the donor heart, enabling it to reach the hospital without delay and facilitating the timely commencement of the life-saving transplant procedure.

Ved Prakash, Divisional Railway Manager, Ahmedabad, said, “The excellent coordination among Indian Railways, RPF, Gujarat State Police and the medical teams ensured the success of this mission. Contributing towards saving a human life is not only our responsibility but also our highest duty towards service and humanity."