Nanded–Mumbai Vande Bharat Express Opens Gateway to Marathwada’s Prosperity

CM Devendra Fadnavis Flags Off High-Speed Train Linking Nanded With Mumbai

The much-awaited Nanded–Mumbai Vande Bharat Express was formally flagged off today by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, marking a major boost to connectivity and economic growth in the Marathwada region.

Speaking at the online inauguration from Mantralaya, the Chief Minister described the train as a “symbol of India’s progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership,” adding that the new link has “brought Nanded closer to Mumbai and opened the doors of prosperity for Marathwada.”

The inaugural event at Nanded railway station was attended by Union and state leaders, including Minister of State for Health Dr. Meghna Bordikar Sakore, Central Railway General Manager Dharmveer Meena, Principal Chief Operations Manager Shyam Sundar Gupta, and senior railway officials.

Faster, bigger, more comfortable

The Nanded–Mumbai service is the first Vande Bharat Express for Marathwada, covering the 610 km distance in just 9.5 hours, a significant cut compared to existing trains. Earlier running only up to Jalna, the service has now been extended to Hazur Sahib Nanded, a key Sikh pilgrimage centre.

With 20 coaches and capacity for 1,440 passengers—up from 500 earlier—the upgraded train offers fully air-conditioned travel with improved speed and comfort. The service will operate six days a week, except Wednesdays from Nanded and Thursdays from Mumbai CSMT.

“Pilgrims, traders, officials and daily commuters will all benefit from this fast, safe and convenient travel option,” Mr. Fadnavis said, congratulating the people of Marathwada.

Religious and tourism boost

Nanded, home to Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, holds special significance for the Sikh community worldwide. Officials said the new link would make pilgrimages smoother while also supporting tourism and trade across Maharashtra.

The launch programme in Nanded saw participation from senior political representatives, including MP Ashok Chavan, MP Dr. Ajit Gopchade, MLA Vikram Kale, along with local administration and police officials.