Pune is set to receive a major boost in rail connectivity with North India after the Ministry of Railways approved a new Amrit Bharat Express service between Hadapsar (Pune) and Banaras (Varanasi). The ministry has also cleared the conversion of the existing Pune–Jabalpur special train into a regular express service.

The decision was communicated through an official letter issued by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation Murlidhar Mohol on Monday, confirming the approval of the new services.

According to officials, the Amrit Bharat Express will originate from Hadapsar terminal, a move expected to ease congestion at Pune railway station. The new service is also aimed at offering more direct and faster travel options for passengers commuting between Pune and key destinations in North India.

Reacting to the announcement, Mohol said the demand for improved connectivity between Pune and northern states had been pending for several years. “The demand for better rail connectivity between Pune and North India had been pending for years, especially for senior citizens travelling to pilgrimage destinations. The approval of the Amrit Bharat Express and the regularisation of the Pune–Jabalpur train have fulfilled the long-awaited aspirations of lakhs of passengers,” he said.

In addition, the Pune–Jabalpur special train (02131/02132) will now run as a permanent service with new train numbers 20161/20162 and will be renamed the Pune–Jabalpur Express. Officials said the regularisation is expected to make advance booking easier throughout the year and reduce the higher fares generally associated with special trains, offering relief to travellers.

The announcement is expected to benefit passengers travelling for pilgrimage, work and family visits, while also strengthening Pune’s long-distance rail network.