Central Railway’s Pune Division has announced a permanent revision in the coach composition of the Kolhapur–Pune TOD Special train.
The adjustment, effective from early June 2025, reflects a strategic effort to improve capacity while aligning with sustainable transport goals that support efficient, eco-friendly travel across Maharashtra. The Kolhapur–Pune TOD Special, a vital connection between the western Maharashtra cities, currently operates with 14 LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches. This comprises one Seating-cum-Luggage Rake with a Guard Cabin, a Generator-cum-Luggage coach, four General Second Class coaches, seven Sleeper Class coaches, and a single AC 3-Tier Economy coach. The revised composition expands the train to 18 coaches, enhancing both seating and sleeping options.
Under the new scheme, the train will include four AC 3-Tier coaches and introduce one AC 2-Tier coach, while maintaining its existing general and sleeper classes. The generator and luggage facilities remain unchanged, ensuring operational efficiency and passenger safety. This significant addition of air-conditioned coaches addresses evolving commuter expectations for comfort and modern amenities during the journey, especially amid rising temperatures and longer travel durations. The revision comes at a time when Indian Railways is increasingly emphasising passenger-centric services without compromising on environmental sustainability. By optimising existing services to carry more passengers efficiently, railways reduce the pressure on road transport and minimise carbon emissions, aligning with the broader national agenda of greener mobility. Enhanced rail capacity reduces dependence on private vehicles and road freight, contributing to lower urban pollution and more equitable access to transport.
Passengers planning to travel on Train No. 01024, departing from Kolhapur on 4 June 2025, and Train No. 01023, departing from Pune on 5 June 2025, are advised to take note of the changes. The augmented coach composition will offer a better balance of affordable and premium travel classes, catering to diverse passenger needs while maintaining cost efficiency. This upgrade not only supports the growing commuter population between Kolhapur and Pune but also reflects a commitment to improving rail infrastructure through strategic service adjustments. The inclusion of additional air-conditioned coaches can be viewed as a move towards more climate-controlled, gender-neutral, and accessible train services, ensuring that all segments of society benefit from improved travel conditions.
The Pune Division’s proactive approach exemplifies how Indian Railways continues to evolve in line with urban and regional development trends. The Kolhapur–Pune route, connecting a key industrial and cultural region to one of Maharashtra’s largest metropolitan centres, is witnessing heightened passenger volumes. The revised composition is a direct response to this increased demand, supporting economic activities and daily commuting patterns. Moreover, the choice to retain a diverse coach mix underscores Indian Railways’ emphasis on inclusive mobility — offering affordable options for economically diverse passengers alongside enhanced comfort for long-distance travellers. This holistic approach aims to foster equitable access while progressively reducing the carbon footprint of intercity travel.
As Indian Railways upgrades its fleet and service models, incremental changes like the Kolhapur–Pune TOD Special coach revision demonstrate a nuanced balance between passenger convenience, environmental stewardship, and operational pragmatism. This initiative also contributes towards the broader vision of sustainable transport infrastructure that supports urban-rural linkages and regional economic integration.
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