Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a comprehensive transformation plan for Pune railway station, emphasizing its historic and industrial significance. The initiative will include the addition of four new platforms and world-class amenities to enhance passenger experience. The announcement was made during the inauguration of two new express trains – Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express and MGR Chennai Central–Bhadat Ki Kothi Express – flagged off from Hadapsar, near Pune.
The event was attended by Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, Minister for Higher and Technical Education Chandrakant Patil, and Members of Parliament Shrirang Barne and Medha Kulkarni. Union Ministers L. Murugan and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat joined virtually from Chennai and Jodhpur, respectively.
Vaishnaw highlighted that development plans for six key stations – Pune, Hadapsar, Khadki, Shivajinagar, Uruli Kanchan, and Alandi – are in their final stages. Discussions with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have also paved the way for the introduction of a Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat train. Additionally, trial runs are underway for the Pune–Nashik railway corridor, which is strategically significant due to the testing laboratory at Khodad. Work on the third and fourth railway lines on the Pune–Lonavala route is nearing completion.
Murlidhar Mohol expressed confidence that the Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express will benefit the large Rajasthani community residing in Pune. Railway development projects worth ₹1 crore are currently underway in the state, with progress under the Amrit Bharat Scheme visible at Pune, Hadapsar, Uruli, and Shivajinagar stations.
MP Medha Kulkarni urged the launch of a new train between Pune and Nashik ahead of the upcoming Kumbh Mela, citing the need for enhanced connectivity.
Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express Schedule:
- Departure from Hadapsar: 7:15 PM | Arrival at Jodhpur: 3:00 PM (next day)
- Departure from Jodhpur: 10:00 PM | Arrival at Hadapsar: 5:00 PM (next day)
- Halts: Chinchwad, Lonavala, Kalyan, Vasai Road, Vapi, Surat, Vadodara Junction, Ahmedabad, Mehsana, Palanpur, Abu Road, Pindwara, Jawai Bandh, Falna, Rani, Marwar Junction, Pali Marwar, and Luni.
This transformative initiative underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing railway infrastructure and boosting regional connectivity.
