Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the highly anticipated Pune-Nagpur Vande Bharat Express on September 15th, marking a significant development in enhancing connectivity within Maharashtra. This new high-speed train will dramatically reduce travel time between these two key cities, providing a more efficient and comfortable option for passengers. The inauguration will take place during a special event in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, where PM Modi will also introduce nine additional Vande Bharat trains to the nation’s rail network.
The introduction of the Pune-Nagpur Vande Bharat Express is expected to revolutionize travel between these two cities. Currently, the fastest train on this route, the Pune-Hatia Express (Train No. 22845), takes about 11 hours to cover the distance. The new Vande Bharat Express promises to drastically cut this travel time, making it a more attractive option for both business travelers and tourists.
Beyond the Pune-Nagpur route, Indian Railways is also gearing up for the launch of other exciting Vande Bharat services. The Varanasi-Agra Vande Bharat Express, set to operate six days a week, will cover the 573-kilometer distance in just seven hours. This train is especially significant for the Agra Railway Division as it marks their first Vande Bharat service, and all loco pilots and train managers onboard are local Agra residents.
In addition to these new routes, Indian Railways is preparing for the trial runs of short-distance Vande Bharat Metro trains, scheduled to commence in July. These trains will serve routes between 100 to 250 kilometers, connecting 124 cities across the country. Meanwhile, the sleeper version of the Vande Bharat, designed for long-distance routes exceeding 1,000 kilometers, is set to begin its trials next month. This expansion of the Vande Bharat network is a testament to India’s commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure and providing its citizens with faster and more convenient travel options.