Maharashtra is preparing to launch its 13th Vande Bharat Express, connecting Pune and Nanded and offering significantly faster travel across Western Maharashtra and Marathwada. The new semi-high-speed service is expected to cut journey time from 10–12 hours to just 6–7 hours, providing passengers with a comfortable and efficient travel option. Pune will become the origin station for its fourth Vande Bharat service, reinforcing the city’s position as a growing railway hub in the state.
Spanning approximately 550 kilometres, the Pune–Nanded route will include limited stops at Kurduwadi, Dharashiv, and Nanded to maintain speed and operational efficiency. Officials noted that the service will indirectly benefit commuters from Barshi, Madha, Pandharpur, and Karmala, improving connectivity for rural and semi-urban communities. “This new route will provide passengers with afternoon departures, allowing convenient day trips and intercity business travel,” said a senior railway official. Compared with existing early-morning and late-night Solapur–Mumbai services, the Pune–Nanded Vande Bharat offers a schedule aligned with passenger needs, enhancing usability and convenience.
The project aligns with Maharashtra’s broader rail modernisation strategy. Currently, the state operates twelve Vande Bharat services linking key cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and adjacent states. The addition of the Pune–Nanded corridor strengthens the network, bridging urban and rural regions while supporting regional trade and tourism. The railway authorities anticipate the train to begin operations by late December 2025 or early January 2026, pending final clearances. Ticket pricing is expected to range between ₹1,200 and ₹2,500, depending on class and distance. Preliminary trials have already confirmed operational safety and readiness.
Experts highlight that the expansion of semi-high-speed rail services in Maharashtra can act as a catalyst for regional economic development. Faster connections reduce travel friction, support local commerce, and facilitate smoother movement of goods and people. “Enhancing rail connectivity is critical for balanced urban-rural integration and sustainable regional growth,” said an industry expert. The Pune–Nanded Vande Bharat Express is expected to not only improve passenger convenience but also contribute to the state’s long-term infrastructure efficiency and greener transport goals by encouraging modal shift from road to rail. This new service reflects Maharashtra’s commitment to building a resilient, modern, and inclusive rail network that benefits both urban centres and outlying districts.
Pune–Nanded Vande Bharat Express Set To Cut Travel Time Five Hours
