Ajni-Pune Vande Bharat Express is set to begin operations from August 10. However, contrary to public expectation, the train will run exclusively with air-conditioned chaircar coaches, rather than sleeper class. This decision, confirmed by senior officials of Central Railway, stems from the train’s 12-hour schedule, deemed suitable for a day journey.
The premium express train, linking the education and employment hubs of Vidarbha and Pune, has been a long-standing demand from commuters. The route, which spans over 880 kilometres, will now be covered in nearly an hour less than the current fastest option, Duronto Express, enhancing efficiency and comfort on a daily basis. Officials revealed that the Vande Bharat will depart Ajni on Mondays and Pune on Tuesdays, operating weekly in each direction.
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The newly announced schedule reveals a 6:20 AM departure from Pune and arrival at Ajni by 6:20 PM. In reverse, the train will depart from Ajni at 9:20 AM, reaching Pune by 9:20 PM. This clearly positions the service as a daytime option for intercity travellers, especially students and professionals who require same-day connectivity without the need for overnight accommodation. The train will halt at several important stations along its route, Wardha, Badnera, Akola, Bhusawal, Jalgaon, Manmad, Daud, Ahilyanagar and Kopargaon, ensuring regional accessibility. Despite the extended duration, railway authorities opted against adding sleeper coaches due to the train’s daytime run, stating that chaircar coaches are in line with the original Vande Bharat design for high-speed, short-haul efficiency.
Transport experts have pointed out that while the decision maintains the train’s original semi-high-speed profile, the lack of sleeper coaches may limit its utility for long-haul passengers, particularly the elderly and those with health conditions. However, officials suggest that improved travel time, premium seating comfort, and better onboard services will help offset these concerns. This service is part of a larger plan to strengthen regional rail connectivity under India’s broader infrastructure expansion vision. Railway authorities are also coordinating to deploy additional trains in the run-up to Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day, with special services being introduced to manage festival demand between Nagpur, Pune, and Mumbai.
Meanwhile, a new weekly train service between Pune and Rewa via Nagpur has been introduced, adding another layer of connectivity to central India. Other trains like the Garib Rath Express, Nagpur-Pune Express, and Gondia-Kolhapur Express continue to serve commuters on similar routes. The introduction of the Ajni-Pune Vande Bharat reflects a broader transition toward faster, electrified, and comfortable travel across urban corridors. However, going forward, authorities may need to consider public demand for sleeper coaches on longer daytime routes to ensure inclusivity and comfort across demographics.
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