Maharashtra is set to strengthen regional mobility with the extension of the Vande Bharat Express from Jalna to Hazur Sahib Nanded, creating a direct semi-high-speed rail corridor to Mumbai. The move is expected to significantly reduce travel time, improve passenger convenience, and stimulate both economic and cultural integration between Marathwada and the state capital.
The upgraded Nanded–Mumbai Vande Bharat service will cover 610 kilometres in just 9 hours and 25 minutes, linking key towns such as Parbhani, Jalna, Aurangabad, Manmad, Nashik, Kalyan, Thane, and Dadar along its route. This marks the first time that the Marathwada region will enjoy such fast and seamless rail connectivity to Mumbai, a step seen by railway experts as vital for balanced regional development.The service will operate with 20 state-of-the-art coaches, including two Executive Class and 18 Chair Cars, offering a total capacity of 1,440 passengers. Designed with modern amenities, the train promises a comfortable and sustainable alternative to road travel, featuring energy-efficient bio vacuum toilets, touch-free facilities, LED lighting, and advanced air-conditioning systems with germ-free filtration technology.
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The introduction of the Nanded Vande Bharat is not only a matter of speed and comfort but also of accessibility. The timings have been carefully designed to allow passengers to reach Mumbai by midday and return home the same evening, opening up new opportunities for business, education, healthcare, and tourism. According to railway officials, this service will particularly benefit pilgrims and tourists travelling to religious and heritage destinations such as the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga temple, the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Shirdi, and Jalna’s Rajur Ganapati temple.Transport experts note that this expansion is part of a broader strategy to position Indian Railways as the backbone of eco-friendly transport. With its semi-high-speed design and advanced safety features like KAVACH technology, the train reflects the national push towards modern, reliable, and carbon-efficient mobility systems. By reducing dependence on road-based transport, the Vande Bharat also contributes to lower emissions and supports India’s commitment to sustainable development.
For a state like Maharashtra, where urban centres such as Mumbai drive economic growth while regions like Marathwada remain underserved, the new link represents more than infrastructure. It is an attempt to bridge economic disparities and offer equitable access to opportunities across districts. Whether for professionals, students, or pilgrims, the Nanded–Mumbai Vande Bharat Express is being seen as both a symbol of aspiration and a tool for
inclusive progress.
