June 19, 2025: The Mumbai–Jalna Vande Bharat Express has now been extended to Nanded, offering improved rail connectivity for thousands of passengers, particularly Sikh pilgrims visiting the revered Hazur Sahib Gurdwara. This extension is expected to greatly enhance the travel experience for both devotees and general travellers across Maharashtra.
The upgraded service now originates from Nanded Junction and halts at key stations including Latur Road, Parbhani, Jalna, Aurangabad, Manmad, Nashik Road, Igatpuri, and Kalyan, before terminating at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). This direct route eliminates the need for multiple train changes and reduces overall travel time, offering a more convenient and seamless journey.
Designed with modern travellers in mind, the Vande Bharat Express is equipped with a host of amenities such as onboard Wi‑Fi, comfortable rotating seats, automated announcements, and enhanced sanitation facilities. These features provide a significant upgrade from conventional trains, making the journey not only quicker but considerably more comfortable.
Indian Railways’ decision to extend the Vande Bharat service to Nanded underlines its commitment to improving regional connectivity and promoting cultural tourism. The extension is expected to especially benefit Sikh pilgrims travelling to Hazur Sahib, one of the five takhts in Sikhism, held in high spiritual regard.
This move marks a noteworthy expansion of Maharashtra’s high-speed rail network. It serves not only religious tourism but also enhances everyday intercity travel between Nanded and Mumbai, via economically and culturally important stops across the Marathwada region.
By bridging key urban and religious centres, the extension of the Mumbai–Jalna Vande Bharat Express to Nanded exemplifies the growing focus on inclusive, efficient, and passenger-friendly rail infrastructure in India.
Source: Construction World