By Kavita Mistry 
A high-speed rail link between Pune and Nagpur may soon be on the cards. The buzz comes after Union Railway Minister’s recent statement during the launch of two new train services, where he confirmed discussions with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister about introducing a Vande Bharat Express on the busy route.
Current Travel Woes: Long Hours and Overcrowding
Passengers commuting between Pune and Nagpur currently face a grueling 14 to 16-hour journey. Overcrowded coaches and lack of confirmed tickets are common complaints. This route is in desperate need of faster, more efficient transport options—something the proposed Vande Bharat aims to address.
Vande Bharat Could Halve Travel Time
If implemented, the Vande Bharat Express is expected to drastically cut down travel time to around 3-5 hours, offering a semi-high-speed, smooth, and air-conditioned alternative to current trains. With comfortable seating and modern amenities, this could be a game changer for both business and leisure travelers.
Still Waiting for Formal Approvals
Despite positive signals, Central Railway officials say they have not yet received official instructions from the Railway Board. A sleeper version of the Vande Bharat was proposed earlier but hasn’t moved forward. Advocacy groups and regional leaders have voiced the need for better connectivity, but final decisions lie with the central government.
Strengthening Nagpur’s Rail Network
If approved, this would be the fourth Vande Bharat Express originating from Nagpur, following routes to Bilaspur, Ujjain-Indore, and Secunderabad. It would further cement Nagpur’s position as a central hub in India’s growing network of semi-high-speed trains.
Conclusion
While there’s no confirmed launch date yet, the growing conversation around the Pune-Nagpur Vande Bharat route has sparked optimism. For passengers weary of slow, crowded trains, the potential for a swift and modern journey could soon be more than just a dream.