People travelling from Pune to North India will now have a more comfortable journey. The Railway Ministry approved a new Amrit Bharat Express between Hadapsar and Varanasi. This decision was communicated by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to Union Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol on April 20, 2026.
What are the features of the Hadapsar-Varanasi Amrit Bharat Express?
The new train will start from Hadapsar terminal to reduce the crowd at Pune railway station. It is a non-AC push-pull train with locomotives at both ends for better speed and braking. The train will have 22 coaches, including sleeper and general class, with special facilities for Divyangjan passengers. For safety, it will have CCTV cameras, fire detection systems, and crash protection.
When will the new train start and who will inaugurate it?
The Hadapsar-Banaras Amrit Bharat Express is scheduled to be inaugurated on April 24, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to preside over the inauguration from Varanasi. The detailed time table and booking dates will be shared by the railways soon.
What is the update on the Pune-Jabalpur special train?
The Railway Ministry has converted the Pune-Jabalpur special train (02131/02132) into a permanent regular service. It will now run as Train No. 20161/20162, the Pune-Jabalpur Express. This change means passengers can now book tickets well in advance and pay lower fares compared to special trains.
| Feature | Hadapsar-Varanasi Express | Pune-Jabalpur Express |
|---|---|---|
| Train Type | Amrit Bharat (Push-Pull) | Regular Express |
| Status | New Launch | Converted from Special |
| Key Benefit | Direct connectivity to Kashi | Easier booking and lower fares |
| Announcement Date | April 20, 2026 | April 20, 2026 |