In a landmark move for rail infrastructure, Maharashtra is gearing up to launch a new semi-high-speed train service between Pune and Nanded. The upcoming addition to the Vande Bharat Express network aims to cut what is currently a 10-12 hour journey down to just 6-7 hours. This fast-track service promises to enhance convenience for business travellers, tourists and local commuters alike.
Expanding the Vande Bharat Network
Maharashtra already features a growing fleet of Vande Bharat trains linking major cities and regions. The new Pune–Nanded route will become the state’s 13th dedicated Vande Bharat service and marks the fourth one connected to Pune. With this launch, Pune strengthens its role as a key railway hub.
Route Details & Travel Time
The service will traverse approximately 550 km between Pune and Nanded, taking just 6–7 hours. Key stations along the route include Pune, Kurduwadi in Solapur district and Dharashiv (formerly Osmanabad), before reaching Nanded. Additional towns such as Barshi, Madha, Pandharpur and Karmala will benefit indirectly through improved connectivity.
Why This Service Matters Locally
For residents of Solapur district and the Marathwada region, the new schedule offers a valuable daytime travel option. Unlike some existing services that depart very early or late, this train is expected to run in the afternoon, making it suited to day-trip business travellers and regional commuters.
Launch Timeline & Fare Estimates
Railway officials indicate the new service could begin operations by late December 2025 or early January 2026, pending final approvals. While exact fares are yet to be confirmed, preliminary estimates suggest ticket prices between ₹1,200 and ₹2,500 depending on class and distance. Trials are already completed to ensure safety standards and operational readiness.
Economic, Tourism and Regional Impacts
The introduction of the Pune–Nanded Vande Bharat Express aligns with the state’s broader strategy to modernise rail infrastructure. Faster connectivity will spur regional trade, ease movement of goods and help unlock tourism potential—particularly for the Marathwada area. For towns along the route, this improved link means easier access to larger urban centres and growth opportunities.
Benefits for Tourists and Leisure Travel
For leisure travellers, this service opens up new possibilities. Marathwada has rich cultural and pilgrimage destinations—travel Time today is a constraint, and the new train will reduce that barrier. Shorter, more comfortable journeys make spontaneous trips more feasible and broaden tourism-market access to smaller towns along the corridor.
Enhancing Maharashtra’s Rail Landscape
Maharashtra’s current Vande Bharat routes already connect cities like Mumbai, Nagpur and several neighbouring states. The arrival of the Pune–Nanded link will further weave rural and urban areas together in a high-speed transport web—bridging accessibility gaps and spreading economic benefit.
What to Expect as the Service Begins
Passengers should expect modern onboard features, reduced journey time and limited halts to maintain speed and efficiency. The route’s afternoon schedule will cater to working professionals and weekend travellers alike, while smaller towns stand to gain from better integration with major cities.
With its launch, the Pune–Nanded Vande Bharat Express marks a significant step in Maharashtra’s rail transformation—delivering faster, smarter and more accessible travel. The service is poised to change how people commute, explore and connect across the state.
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