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Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat Express – Everything You Need to Know
The Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat Express is one of India’s modern trains that connects two important cities in Maharashtra. It offers a faster, cleaner, and more comfortable way to travel between Nagpur and Pune. This article gives you all the details about the train – its features, timings, route, price, benefits, and what makes it different from other trains.
What is the Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat?
The Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat Express is a semi-high-speed train introduced by Indian Railways to cut down travel time and improve passenger comfort. It started running on 15 September 2024. On the same day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also launched nine other Vande Bharat trains across the country. This shows how serious the government is about upgrading train travel in India.
This train is specially designed in India and comes with better speed, comfort, and safety compared to regular trains. It is mainly meant for those who want to travel overnight between Pune and Nagpur in less time.
Key Features of the Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat
The train has many modern features that make the journey smooth and comfortable. Here are some of the main highlights:
Speed and Travel Time
- Can run up to 160 km/h, but currently operates at a max of 130 km/h on this route.
- Covers a distance of about 800–886 km in around 12 hours.
- This is 3–6 hours faster than most regular trains.
Classes Available
- AC Chair Car (CC): Reclining seats, charging points, clean interiors.
- Executive Chair Car (EC): More legroom, better cushioning, and fewer seats per coach for extra comfort.
Connectivity and Safety
- Free onboard Wi-Fi for basic browsing and work.
- CCTV cameras, fire detection systems, and automatic doors for safety.
- GPS-based information screens for live updates.
Accessibility
- Automatic doors help with easier entry.
- Coaches are equipped to help passengers with special needs, though the short stopping time can be a concern for some.
Food Services
- Meals, snacks, tea, and coffee are available.
- You can buy thalis and combo meals, but food is not included in the ticket price.
Route and Halts
The Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat Express stops at important stations that connect several cities across Maharashtra.
Route Map
| Station Name | City |
|---|---|
| Nagpur Junction | Nagpur |
| Wardha Junction | Wardha |
| Badnera Junction | Amravati |
| Akola Junction | Akola |
| Bhusaval Junction | Jalgaon |
| Jalgaon Junction | Jalgaon |
| Manmad Junction | Nashik |
| Ahmednagar | Ahmednagar |
| Pune Junction | Pune |
These stops help connect both large and mid-sized cities, giving more people access to faster travel.
Schedule and Timings
The train runs six days a week, with one day reserved for maintenance.
From Pune to Nagpur
- Departs Pune: 7:00 PM
- Arrives Nagpur: 7:00 AM (next day)
- Travel Time: Around 12 hours
From Nagpur to Pune
- Departs Nagpur: 7:00 PM
- Arrives Pune: 7:00 AM (next day)
- Travel Time: Around 12 hours
This overnight schedule is perfect for those who want to travel at night and reach their destination early morning for work or personal commitments.
Ticket Prices
The Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat Express offers two classes with the following approximate fares:
| Class Type | Fare (Approx) |
|---|---|
| AC Chair Car (CC) | ₹1,800 |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | ₹3,315 |
Please note:
- These are base prices and may change depending on booking time, availability, and season.
- Prices can be higher if you book under the Tatkal scheme.
- Booking opens 60 days in advance on the IRCTC website or app.
- You can also book through platforms like MakeMyTrip, ixigo, redRail, Goibibo, or ConfirmTkt.
How to Book Tickets
There are multiple ways to book tickets for the Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat:
1. IRCTC Website or App
The official booking platform offers real-time seat availability, fare checks, and PNR status.
2. Third-Party Apps
Apps like ixigo, MakeMyTrip, and redRail provide a smoother interface and features like free cancellation or cashbacks.
3. Last-Minute Booking
You can now book tickets up to 15 minutes before departure, which helps if you’re traveling on short notice.
How It Compares with Other Trains on This Route
The Nagpur-Pune route already has a few trains. Here’s how the Vande Bharat stands out:
| Train Name | Travel Time | Fare (Approx) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vande Bharat | ~12 hrs | ₹1,800 to ₹3,315 | Fast, comfortable, modern |
| Duronto Express | ~12.5 hrs | ₹300 to ₹3,830 | Slightly faster, but fewer facilities |
| Maharashtra Express | 15–18 hrs | From ₹280 | Cheaper but much slower |
| Humsafar Express | ~15 hrs | From ₹290 | Affordable, longer time |
While the Vande Bharat may cost more than others, it gives much better value in terms of speed and comfort. For those who value time or are traveling for work, it’s the best option.
Why This Train Matters
The introduction of the Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat Express has had a big impact on travel and the local economy.
1. Better Business Travel
Pune is known for IT and manufacturing, while Nagpur is becoming a major logistics hub. This train makes it easier for people in both cities to travel for work.
2. Boost to Tourism
This route helps tourists visit:
- Tadoba National Park near Nagpur
- Aga Khan Palace and Shaniwar Wada in Pune
- Local spots in Akola, Jalgaon, and Ahmednagar
3. Reduced Pressure on Other Trains
Trains like the Maharashtra Express often run full. The Vande Bharat helps reduce this rush.
4. Job Creation
The train is maintained at Ajni Car Shed in Nagpur, creating jobs in railway operations, maintenance, and support services.
Passenger Feedback and Issues
While most passengers like the train, some points have been raised:
Positive Feedback
- On-time arrival
- Clean coaches
- Smooth ride
- Faster travel than other trains
Concerns
- Short Stoppage Time: Just 2 minutes at most stations, which makes it hard for older people or those with luggage.
- Premium Fare: Some passengers feel the cost is high compared to budget trains.
- No Sleeper Coaches: Since this is an overnight journey, many passengers would prefer sleeper berths.
These are areas where Indian Railways can improve over time, especially as more trains are launched.
Future Plans
Indian Railways is working on expanding the Vande Bharat fleet. By 2026, more sleeper versions of the train are expected to roll out.
This means that future versions of the Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat might offer:
- Overnight sleeper options
- More affordable tickets
- Better station connectivity
These updates could make the train useful for even more people.
Quick Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Route | Pune – Nagpur (and vice versa) |
| Distance | Around 800–886 km |
| Travel Time | ~12 hours |
| Frequency | 6 days a week |
| Ticket Prices | ₹1,800 – ₹3,315 |
| Booking Platforms | IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, ixigo, redRail |
| Coach Types | Chair Car (CC), Executive (EC) |
| Major Stops | 7 (including Akola, Ahmednagar) |
| Wi-Fi | Available |
| Food | Available for purchase |
| Safety Features | CCTV, auto doors, fire sensors |
| Maintenance Hub | Ajni Car Shed, Nagpur |
FAQs
1. How long does the Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat take?
It takes around 12 hours to complete the journey.
2. Is food included in the ticket price?
No, food is not included. You can buy meals and snacks on the train.
3. How can I book a ticket?
You can book via IRCTC, or through apps like MakeMyTrip, ixigo, or redRail.
4. Does the train run daily?
No, it runs six days a week, with one day off for maintenance.
5. Is the train always on time?
The train is mostly punctual, but like all services, delays can happen occasionally.
The Nagpur Pune Vande Bharat Express is a major step forward in Indian train travel. With its faster speed, clean coaches, and better services, it brings two key cities closer than ever before. It helps both business and casual travelers save time, and also improves access to smaller cities on the route.
Even though it’s priced higher than regular trains, many find it worth the extra cost for the speed and comfort it offers. As Indian Railways continues to improve and expand these services, trains like this are shaping the future of travel in India.
Read More at mumbaipune.co.in
I’m Devansh Patel, and I write about everything related to Mumbai and Pune. From the latest news and events to popular hangouts and local stories, my articles cover the essence of both cities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, my goal is to provide you with useful and engaging content to help you explore these vibrant cities. Stay tuned for more updates!
