CR proposes sleeper Vande Bharat trains to Pune
Nagpur: To ease the increasing rush of travellers, the Nagpur Division of Central Railway (CR) last month sent a proposal for introducing sleeper Vande Bharat train on the busy Nagpur-Pune route. The division has also sent a proposal for non-sleeper Vande Bharat to Secunderabad.
The Nagpur-Pune route is known for its high passenger traffic. Though Garib Rath, Ajni-Pune Super Fast Express and Nagpur-Pune Express are available on alternate days between the two cities on all weekdays, the waiting list remains perpetually long, causing inconvenience to...
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travellers thus forcing people to travel by private buses.
CR proposes sleeper Vande Bharat trains to Pune

“To address this issue and provide a more comfortable and convenient travel experience to passengers, we have proposed the introduction of sleeper Vande Bharat train for Pune and another non-sleeper Vande Bharat for Secunderabad. These trains are designed to offer a superior travel experience with modern amenities and enhanced comfort,” said Aman Mittal, senior divisional commercial manager (SrDCM).
Presently, Vande Bharat trains operate on the Nagpur-Bilaspur and Nagpur-Indore routes. These are chair car trains and do not have sleeper coaches. The proposal for sleeper Vande Bharat trains is significant because, as of now, such trains have not been introduced in the country. The introduction of sleeper Vande Bharat would mark a new milestone in the Indian Railways’ efforts to modernize and upgrade its fleet.
The sleeper Vande Bharat trains are expected to feature state-of-the-art amenities, including comfortable berths, personal reading lights, mobile charging points, and modern toilets. These trains are likely to have a higher speed capability compared to traditional trains, reducing travel time between Nagpur and Pune. The faster and more comfortable journey will greatly benefit passengers.
“The Nagpur division’s proposal is a step towards addressing the growing demand for efficient and comfortable travel options on this busy route. With the introduction of sleeper Vande Bharat trains, passengers can expect a significant improvement in their travel experiences. The faster and more comfortable journeys will not only save time but also provide a more pleasant and hassle-free travel experience,” said Mittal.
“DRM Manish Agarwal has been pushing for sleeper Vande Bharat and also raised the issue at various official forums. The introduction of sleeper Vande Bharat trains on the Nagpur-Pune route will not only benefit passengers but also showcase the Indian Railways’ capabilities in designing and manufacturing world-class trains,” said Mittal.
According to the experts, it will take over a year to get sleeper Vande Bharat. The prototype is ready and only after successful trials, serial production of these trains will start. The trains are first expected to run between capital cities like Mumbai-Delhi-Chennai-Kolkata.
“The Indian Railways will need to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and facilities are in place to support the operation of these trains. This may include upgrading the tracks, signalling systems, and maintenance facilities to handle the new train sets,” they said.
“The introduction of sleeper Vande Bharat trains on the Nagpur-Pune route is expected to be a game-changer for passengers travelling between these two cities. The faster, more comfortable, and convenient travel experience will attract more passengers to opt for train travel, reducing the burden on other modes of transportation,” said analyst on railway infrastructure Alok Patel.
The Nagpur division’s proposal for introducing sleeper Vande Bharat trains on the Nagpur-Pune route is a welcome move that will greatly benefit passengers. It is expected to revolutionize travel on this busy route,” said Pravin Dabli, ex-member ZRUCC.