I mean to say, there are a lot other PUNE-HYB trains available on the route, which are quicker than this train, so they have the options, but for KOP-HYB there is no option,
also on experimental basis this rake can be run on KOP-HYB route on a day when it is not running on PUNE-HYB route, well one can see the response then CR can opt for the new rake.
for kolhapur -solapur exp has sleeper coach rake, but as it is a day train nobody wants a sleeper, further fare is...
more... higher for sleeper, so people opt for general ticket and use UR coaches available, so that is why there reservations are always available. I have traveled by that train two times in off season, believe me there is descent crowd boarding and alighting at kurduwadi, pandharpur, Miraj.
attaching photo of croud at pandharpur waiting for SUR-KOP Exp on second day run. see the croud.