The Ministry of Railways has approved an experimental stoppage for the 12289/12290 Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus-Nagpur Duronto Express at Wardha station. This decision follows significant public demand and efforts by local representatives to improve rail connectivity for the region. The Railway Board issued the official order on March 27, 2026, marking a positive development for premium train travel in Maharashtra.
Details of the Wardha stoppage and train schedule
The 12289/12290 Duronto Express is a crucial link between Nagpur and Mumbai, and the addition of Wardha as a stop will benefit thousands of commuters. According to Railway Board Order No. CC-114/2026, the halt is classified as experimental and will be implemented from an early convenient date. This move is expected to boost passenger numbers from the Wardha district who previously had to travel to Nagpur to board this train.
Role of public representatives in the decision
The approval comes after persistent lobbying by MP Pratibha Dhanorkar, who raised the issue in the Lok Sabha on March 23, 2026. She subsequently met with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on March 26 to emphasize the importance of this halt for local residents. Various passenger organizations have welcomed this development, noting that it fulfills a long-standing requirement for better access to premium rail services in the Vidarbha region.