Rail connectivity between Telangana and Maharashtra is set for a major upgrade as Indian Railways has announced two new Vande Bharat Express trains — one connecting Hyderabad and Pune, and another on the Secunderabad–Nanded route. These new services are expected to significantly reduce travel time and enhance passenger convenience, strengthening the transport corridor between the two neighbouring states.
Faster Travel and Better Connectivity
The introduction of these new trains will cut travel times by two to three hours, offering a faster and more comfortable alternative to existing services. Currently, the Secunderabad–Pune Shatabdi Express takes around eight and a half hours to complete the journey. Officials are now considering replacing it entirely with a Vande Bharat Express, which will not only reduce travel time but also offer enhanced passenger amenities, including improved seating, faster acceleration, and modern onboard facilities.
Growing Popularity of Vande Bharat Services
The decision to introduce additional Vande Bharat services stems from the overwhelming response to the existing trains. Routes such as Secunderabad–Visakhapatnam, Secunderabad–Tirupati, and Kacheguda–Yeshvantpur consistently record high occupancy levels, highlighting strong passenger demand for faster and more efficient rail options.
With the addition of the Hyderabad–Pune and Secunderabad–Nanded services, South Central Railway (SCR) will operate seven Vande Bharat trains, placing it among the top railway zones in the country for deploying these indigenous semi-high-speed trains.
Strategic Importance for Trade and Travel
The new Vande Bharat trains will play a crucial role in improving not just passenger connectivity but also economic and cultural ties between Telangana and Maharashtra. Hyderabad and Pune are both major IT, education, and business hubs, and the faster train service is expected to benefit professionals, students, and entrepreneurs who frequently travel between the two cities.
Additionally, the Secunderabad–Nanded route will boost connectivity for smaller towns and cities, making regional travel more convenient and time-efficient.
Future Plans and Expanding Network
Indian Railways is also planning to launch the Secunderabad–Muzaffarpur Amrit Bharat Express within the next month, further expanding long-distance travel options from Telangana. The continued focus on semi-high-speed train services underscores the government’s commitment to modernising India’s rail network and meeting rising passenger expectations.
With these upcoming additions, Vande Bharat Express is set to redefine intercity travel between Telangana and Maharashtra, combining speed, comfort, and convenience like never before.
