Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated three new Vande Bharat Express trains during an event at Bengaluru’s KSR Railway Station.
Among them was the Nagpur (Ajni)–Pune Vande Bharat Express, a premium service aimed at offering faster, more comfortable travel across Maharashtra.
Timing and Schedule
The Nagpur (Ajni)–Pune Vande Bharat Express (26102) will operate six days a week, departing Ajni at 9:50 am and arriving in Pune at 9:50 pm. The return service (26101) will leave Pune at 6:25 am and reach Nagpur at 6:25 pm. The journey time is expected to be close to 12 hours, significantly reducing travel duration between the two cities.
Route and Stops
The train will halt at Wardha, Badnera, Akola, Shegaon, Bhusawal, Jalgaon, Manmad, Kopargaon, Ahilyanagar, and Daund Chord Line. It will connect major districts in Maharashtra, boosting regional connectivity, tourism, and economic activity.
Modern Amenities for Passengers
Equipped with modern facilities, the Vande Bharat Express promises a smooth and comfortable travel experience. Chair car tickets are priced at ₹2,040, while executive chair car seats are available for ₹3,725. The service is expected to appeal to both business and leisure travellers.
Dignitaries at the Event
The Bengaluru ceremony was attended by Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and other dignitaries. Alongside the Nagpur–Pune service, PM Modi also flagged off Vande Bharat Express trains from Bengaluru to Belagavi, and from Amritsar to Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra.