Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat Express Unveiled
Maharashtra's New High-Speed Lifeline Runs from August 11, 2025
A monumental step for Indian Railways: The new Vande Bharat Express connecting the cultural capital of Pune with the winter capital of Nagpur promises to revolutionize travel across the state.
In a landmark development for Maharashtra's transportation network, the Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat Express is set to begin its commercial operations, offering a swift and modern travel experience between the two vital cities. This semi-high-speed train, a symbol of India's railway modernization efforts, will officially commence its regular service from Pune on August 11, 2025, and from its other end, Ajni (Nagpur), on August 12, 2025. The much-anticipated launch was marked by a special inaugural run on August 10, celebrating the new link that will connect the state's western and Vidarbha regions like never before. With a journey time of just 12 hours, this train is poised to become the fastest and most efficient mode of travel on this busy route, significantly cutting down on the long travel times of traditional trains and buses.
This new Vande Bharat Express is not just a train; it's a bridge between two of Maharashtra's most important economic and cultural hubs. Spanning an impressive 881 kilometers, it holds the distinction of being India's longest-duration Vande Bharat journey to date. The introduction of this service directly addresses the long-standing demand for a faster, more comfortable rail connection for professionals, students, traders, and tourists who frequently travel between Pune and Nagpur. The train’s advanced features and superior passenger amenities promise to redefine the standard of rail travel in the region, providing a comfortable and reliable alternative to other modes of transport.
Train Features & Onboard Amenities
Step into a new era of rail travel. The Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat Express is a testament to cutting-edge technology and passenger-centric design.
Modern Comfort & Design
The train is composed of eight state-of-the-art coaches, including seven Chair Cars (CC) and one Executive Chair Car (EC), with a total seating capacity of 590 passengers. Each coach is fully air-conditioned with automatic temperature control, ensuring a pleasant journey regardless of the weather outside. The seats are designed for superior comfort, featuring enhanced legroom, reclining functionality, and mobile charging points at every seat.
Safety and Connectivity
Passenger safety is a top priority, with a robust surveillance system and automatic doors. The train is also equipped with modern amenities like Wi-Fi connectivity and a comprehensive infotainment system to keep passengers entertained throughout the journey. The pantry car provides high-quality catering, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. The train's design prioritizes a smooth and quiet ride, minimizing jerks and noise for a restful trip.
Detailed Schedule & Route
The Pune–Ajni Vande Bharat Express will operate six days a week, with a strategically planned schedule to cater to both morning and evening commuters. The service will be a boon for those looking for a comfortable day-time journey, eliminating the need for overnight travel and allowing passengers to reach their destination fresh and ready.
Pune to Ajni (Nagpur) – Train No. 26101
The journey from Pune to Ajni is scheduled for a convenient morning departure. The train departs Pune Junction at 06:25 AM and is expected to arrive at Ajni (Nagpur) at 06:25 PM on the same day. This service will run on all days except Tuesday.
Ajni (Nagpur) to Pune – Train No. 26102
For the return journey, the train will depart from Ajni at 09:50 AM and will reach Pune Junction at 09:50 PM. This service will run on all days except Monday.
Key Stoppages
The train is designed to be a semi-high-speed service with limited stops to ensure the fastest possible journey time. The ten commercial stoppages are:
- Wardha
- Badnera
- Akola
- Shegaon
- Bhusaval
- Jalgaon
- Manmad
- Kopargaon
- Ahmednagar
- Daund Chord Line
Fare and Booking Information
The fare structure is designed to offer a premium yet accessible travel option for passengers on this route.
Class-wise Fares
The train features two classes of travel: Executive Chair Car (EC) and Chair Car (CC). While the exact dynamic pricing may vary, the approximate base fares are as follows:
- Chair Car (CC): Approximately ₹1,500
- Executive Chair Car (EC): Approximately ₹3,000
These fares are highly competitive, especially when considering the time savings and superior comfort compared to other travel options. The fare for the Executive Class includes premium catering services, adding to the overall luxurious experience.
Booking & Availability
Bookings for the regular service of the Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat Express opened today, August 10, 2025, at 12 PM. Passengers can book their tickets through the official IRCTC website, mobile app, or authorized reservation counters. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the festive seasons and holidays, as demand for this new, efficient service is expected to be high. The train's availability and real-time status are now visible on the IRCTC portal.
Connecting Two Maharashtra Powerhouses
The launch of the Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat Express is more than just an addition to the railway network; it's a catalyst for regional growth and integration. By providing seamless and fast connectivity, the train will foster greater economic ties between the industrial and IT hub of Pune and the growing commercial and educational center of Nagpur. Students and business professionals will benefit from the reduced travel time, making same-day journeys a practical reality.
Furthermore, the train is expected to boost tourism. Destinations along the route, such as the religious sites in Shegaon and the historical city of Aurangabad (accessible from Manmad), will become more accessible. This new service is a significant step towards fulfilling the vision of a connected and prosperous Maharashtra, driven by modern, sustainable, and high-quality infrastructure. It is a proud addition to the Vande Bharat fleet and a symbol of progress for the state.
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