In a landmark moment for Maharashtra’s rail connectivity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today flagged off the Ajni (Nagpur)–Pune Vande Bharat Express via video link from Bengaluru. The grand ceremony at Nagpur Railway Station’s Platform No. 8 was attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, senior railway officials, and local dignitaries.
This marks Maharashtra’s 12th Vande Bharat service and the longest route in the country for the premium train, covering 881 km in just 12 hours. The train will serve key cities and towns along the wardha–Akola–Shegaon–Bhusawal–Jalgaon–Manmad–Ahmednagar–Daund corridor — many of which will experience Vande Bharat service for the first time.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “Today is a proud and joyful occasion for all of us. I had personally requested the Railway Minister to start a Vande Bharat service between Nagpur and Pune because of the heavy travel demand. Many times, private bus fares on this route go as high as ₹5,000, causing great inconvenience to passengers. The Railway Minister responded positively, and today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this dream has become a reality. This is the longest Vande Bharat route in the country, a first in Indian Railways history, completing the journey in just 12 hours. I sincerely thank the Prime Minister and the Railway Minister for this gift to Maharashtra.”
The Ajni–Pune Vande Bharat is expected to significantly benefit traders, students, working professionals, and tourists. Nagpur, known as the “Orange City” and “Tiger Capital of India,” is a major educational and healthcare hub, while Pune is widely regarded as Maharashtra’s cultural and academic capital. The new service will connect these growth centers more efficiently, boosting commerce and tourism.
The Vande Bharat Express offers automatic temperature control, panoramic windows, bio-vacuum toilets, automatic doors, LED lighting, CCTV surveillance, and regenerative braking — making it one of the most modern train services in India.
With today’s launch, Indian Railways now operates 72 Vande Bharat trains across 24 states and union territories, with plans to introduce over 200 services in the next three years.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com