New Vande Bharat Sleeper to Slash Pune–Bengaluru Journey Time

Pune: Travellers between Pune and Bengaluru can expect a major reduction in journey duration as Indian Railways prepares to roll out a new Vande Bharat sleeper service on the Mumbai–Bengaluru corridor.

The upcoming train is expected to bring down travel time on the Pune–Bengaluru stretch to nearly 13 hours, a significant improvement compared to existing services that typically take between 18 and 19 hours to complete the route.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has confirmed that the sleeper version of the Vande Bharat train connecting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and KSR Bengaluru City Junction has received approval. The train will pass through key stations such as Solapur and Wadi along its route.

As per the proposed schedule, the service is likely to operate six days a week, with one day set aside for routine maintenance. Departures from both ends are expected to take place in the evening, enabling convenient overnight travel for passengers.

The train will feature modern amenities, including the indigenous ‘Kavach’ safety system designed to enhance operational safety and prevent collisions. The rake configuration will include multiple air-conditioned coaches across different classes, catering to a large number of passengers with improved comfort.

Commuters have welcomed the development, noting that the reduced travel time will be especially beneficial for professionals and students who frequently travel between the two cities. The addition of sleeper coaches with upgraded facilities is also expected to make long-distance journeys more convenient and efficient.

The introduction of this service marks another step in the ongoing modernisation of India’s rail network, aimed at providing faster and more comfortable travel options across major routes.