New trains, including Vande Bharat for Mumbai, likely only next year

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

The 16-coach pit line work at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar railway station, which was originally scheduled to be completed in one year, remains unfinished even after three years. The railway administration has now set a new deadline of December for its completion. As a result, new trains, including a Vande Bharat Express to Mumbai, are expected only next year.

The Jalna–Mumbai Vande Bharat Express was extended up to Nanded last year, with changes made to its schedule, causing inconvenience to passengers traveling from the city to Mumbai. Considering this, former MP Dr. Bhagwat Karad had requested a new Vande Bharat service from the city to Mumbai in August 2025. The Railway Minister had then assured that the train would be introduced within three months, but it has not been launched.

Meanwhile, the pit line project has been delayed. Officials say it is essential for introducing new trains, and its completion has now been extended till December. Due to this delay, passengers will likely have to wait longer for the Vande Bharat and other new services.

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Original deadline was December 2023

The foundation stone for the pit line projects at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Jalna stations was laid on October 3, 2022 by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Work began in April 2023, with an initial deadline of December 2023, which was not met.

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Will meet Railway Minister

Former MP Dr. Bhagwat Karad said he will soon meet the Railway Minister regarding the new Vande Bharat Express.