Over 1,400 Festival Special Trains Run by Pune Division in FY 2025–26
Pune, 3rd April 2026: Pune Division of Central Railway operated a large number of special trains and introduced new services during the financial year 2025–26 to manage festival rush and improve connectivity across regions.
During the Diwali and Chhath festival season, a total of 1,109 special trains were operated, registering an increase of 197.3 percent compared to the previous year. For the Christmas and New Year period, 40 special trains were operated, reflecting a growth of 566.67 percent over the previous year. During Holi, the division operated 251 special trains, marking an increase of 141.35 percent compared to the previous year.
In addition to festival specials, five pairs of new train services were introduced during FY 2025–26, connecting Pune Division with Jodhpur, Rewa, Ajni through Vande Bharat service, Tirupati, and Muzaffarpur, improving long-distance connectivity for passengers.
Passenger train services were also introduced for the first time on the Amalner–Beed section by extending Train No. 71441/42 ANG–AMNE–ANG DEMU up to Beed. The service was inaugurated on 17 September 2026, addressing a long-standing demand for rail connectivity in the region.
Senior Divisional Operations Manager Dr Ramdas Bhise said that the significant increase in special train operations during major festivals was planned to manage the heavy passenger demand and reduce waiting lists. He stated that special trains were operated after continuous monitoring of passenger demand patterns, reservations, and seasonal travel trends. He added that the introduction of new train services and extension of passenger services to new sections were aimed at improving regional connectivity and providing more travel options to passengers across different parts of the country. He also stated that operational planning focused on ensuring punctuality, availability of rakes, crew management, and smooth movement of trains during peak travel periods.
