Pune-Nagpur Vande Bharat Express Likely to Start Soon, Says Railway Minister
PUNE/NAGPUR — In a major boost for daily commuters between Nagpur and Pune, the long-demanded Vande Bharat Express is likely to become a reality soon. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently indicated that discussions regarding the launch of this high-speed train are moving in a positive direction.
Speaking during the inauguration of two new services—the Hadapsar-Jodhpur Express and the MGR Chennai Central–Bhagat Ki Kothi Express—Minister Vaishnaw confirmed that constructive conversations had taken place with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis about launching the Pune-Nagpur Vande Bharat Express.
This potential launch brings hope to thousands of passengers who regularly undertake the grueling 14 to 16-hour journey between the two cities. The route, plagued by overbooking and lack of confirmed seats, has long needed a faster, more comfortable rail option. In many cases, passengers are forced to settle for whatever class is available or even endure costly and tiring bus journeys.
For over two years, public representatives and passenger associations have consistently petitioned the Railway Ministry to introduce a Vande Bharat train along this heavily trafficked corridor. However, with all new train decisions centralized, regional officials could not move forward on their own despite recognizing the demand.
Minister Vaishnaw’s recent remarks have reignited optimism. According to reports, Central Railway officials have not yet received formal instructions but acknowledged that a proposal for a sleeper Vande Bharat had already been sent to the Mumbai headquarters last year.
If introduced, this new service would mark the fourth Vande Bharat train to originate from Nagpur, solidifying its position as a major hub for high-speed rail. The journey began two and a half years ago with the Nagpur-Bilaspur Vande Bharat Express, followed by services to Ujjain, Indore, and most recently, Secunderabad.
Unlike the Nagpur–Secunderabad Vande Bharat, which saw poor passenger turnout and led to reduced coaches, the proposed Nagpur–Pune route is expected to receive strong, year-round demand. Commuters are hopeful this train will offer both convenience and affordability, reducing dependency on unreliable alternatives and helping the Railways improve earnings.
As public anticipation builds, all eyes are now on the Railway Ministry and Maharashtra government to turn this long-anticipated service into a timely and tangible reality.
