India’s Longest-Route Vande Bharat Train Launched on Nagpur–Pune Corridor

News:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Nagpur-Pune Vande Bharat Express and two other trains via video conferencing.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attended the ceremony at Nagpur’s Central Railway Station.
The Nagpur-Pune Vande Bharat Express covers the longest route among all Vande Bharat trains in India, completing the journey in about 12 hours.
The train halts at key stations including Wardha, Badnera, Akola, Bhusawal, Jalgaon, Manmad, Kopargaon, Ahilyanagar, and Daund.
The service was launched following a demand from Vidarbha passengers, who previously relied on expensive private transport and longer travel times.

Significance:

Longest route for Vande Bharat Express trains, enhancing intercity connectivity.
Reduces travel time between Nagpur and Pune to around 12 hours.
Provides an affordable, faster alternative to private vehicles.

Reasons for Launch:

High passenger demand from Vidarbha region to Pune.
Maharashtra government requested Indian Railways to start this service to ease travel difficulties.

Benefits:

Boosts regional economic integration and mobility within Maharashtra.
Promotes modern, efficient rail travel aligned with government infrastructure goals.
Encourages use of public transport and reduces reliance on costlier private options.

Broader Context:

Part of India’s efforts towards railway modernization under initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘National Rail Plan’.
Supports sustainable transport and regional development goals.

Updated August 10, 2025, 4:54 PM | Source: NewsOnAir