Central Railway is revolutionising train travel with the introduction of modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches on two key routes, promising enhanced safety and comfort for thousands of passengers.
Starting May 1, 2025, the Hazur Sahib Nanded-Panvel Express (Train no. 17614/17613) and the Hazur Sahib Nanded-Pune Express (Train no. 17630/17629) will feature LHB coaches, replacing outdated models. This upgrade, coupled with a new QR code-based timetable system at Mumbai’s major stations, signals a bold step toward safer, smarter, and more inclusive rail travel across Maharashtra. For daily commuters and long-distance travellers, the shift to LHB coaches is a lifeline. These German-designed coaches, known for their anti-telescopic technology, reduce the risk of derailment and passenger injuries during collisions. Each train will now comprise one AC 2-Tier, five AC 3-Tier, five Sleeper Class, four General Second Class, one General Second Class cum Guard’s Brake Van, and one Generator Van. The Nanded-Panvel Express will adopt this composition from Nanded on May 1 and Panvel on May 2, while the Nanded-Pune Express follows suit from Nanded on May 3 and Pune on May 4. Passengers, from students in Nanded to professionals in Pune, can expect smoother, safer journeys, easing the stress of crowded or unreliable travel.
Central Railway’s innovation extends beyond coaches. On April 30, 2025, its Mumbai Division rolled out a QR code-based information system at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Dadar, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), and Panvel stations. By scanning QR codes displayed at these hubs, passengers can instantly access train schedules, PRS rules, route maps, the Central Railway website, and the RailMadad portal for grievances—all in English, Hindi, and Marathi. This contactless system empowers elderly travellers, non-tech-savvy commuters, and rural passengers, fostering equitable access to critical information. These initiatives align with India’s push for sustainable and inclusive urban mobility. LHB coaches, with their energy-efficient design, reduce fuel consumption, supporting net-zero goals. The QR system cuts paper usage, promoting eco-friendly operations. For Mumbai’s 7.5 million daily rail commuters, these upgrades mean more than convenience—they represent a railway system that prioritises safety, accessibility, and environmental responsibility.
As Central Railway modernises, it bridges urban and rural Maharashtra, connecting aspirations to opportunities. A family in Nanded can now travel to Panvel with greater peace of mind, while a first-time visitor at CSMT navigates with ease. These changes are not just upgrades—they’re a promise of a railway network that serves every passenger, sustainably and equitably, for generations to come.
