The proposed Pune–Bengaluru Vande Bharat sleeper train could reduce travel time and add a faster overnight rail option for passengers between Maharashtra and Karnataka, with a possible launch on November 1, according to information cited by Pune Mirror.
The proposed Mumbai–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper Express is expected to cover the full route in around 16 to 18 hours, compared with approximately 22 hours taken by existing services. For passengers boarding at Pune, the journey to Bengaluru could take about 12 to 15 hours, depending on the final timetable and operating arrangements.
Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna has announced the possible November 1 launch date. A recent trial run was conducted on the Mumbai–Pune section. However, Indian Railways has not yet released the final timetable, confirmed station halts, ticket prices or reservation opening date.
The proposed route is expected to connect Bengaluru with Mumbai through Anantapur, Guntakal, Raichur, Kalaburagi, Solapur, Pune and Kalyan. A confirmed halt at Pune would allow local passengers to use the service directly instead of travelling to Mumbai to board the train.
Preliminary timetable estimates indicate that a train leaving Mumbai at around 10.30 pm could reach Pune at approximately 1.50 am before continuing southwards. It could arrive in Bengaluru at about 2.50 pm the following day. In the opposite direction, the service could depart Bengaluru at around 10 pm, reach Pune at approximately 10.35 am the next morning and arrive in Mumbai at around 1.50 pm.
These timings are indicative and should not be treated as a confirmed railway schedule. The actual travel time, Pune stop and operating pattern will depend on the official timetable issued by the railway authorities.
The proposed train is planned with 16 coaches, including 11 three-tier AC coaches, four two-tier AC coaches and one first-class AC coach. Its estimated capacity is around 823 berths, providing sleeping accommodation for passengers travelling overnight on the long-distance route.
The sleeper configuration is intended to make the journey more convenient for passengers travelling between Pune and Bengaluru for work and other commitments. The service would also add an overnight option on a corridor linking two major urban and economic centres in western and southern India.
Railway authorities are yet to confirm the final launch, station halts, fares, reservation date and operational timings. These details are expected to be clarified through the official railway schedule and subsequent booking announcements.
