To manage the sharp rise in passenger traffic during the summer vacation period, Central Railway has introduced six weekend special train services linking Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur. Railway officials said the additional trains are being launched to reduce overcrowding on regular services and offer passengers more travel options during peak weekends. The announcement is expected to benefit thousands of travellers commuting between major cities in Maharashtra for vacations, work and family visits. Authorities stated that passenger demand has increased significantly in recent weeks, especially on long-distance routes, prompting the railway administration to plan extra services for smoother and more convenient travel arrangements.
The railway administration confirmed that the special operations will include four additional trains between Mumbai and Nagpur and two special services connecting Pune and Nagpur. Officials said these trains are being introduced mainly for weekend travel, when passenger movement witnesses a substantial increase. Central Railway added that the move is aimed at ensuring passengers experience timely journeys and improved comfort despite heavy seasonal rush. The extra services are also expected to strengthen rail connectivity between western and eastern Maharashtra. Travellers heading to Nagpur from Mumbai and Pune are likely to benefit from the added flexibility and availability of reserved accommodation during the busy summer period.
Details of the Special Trains and Halts:
Train Nos. 01021 and 01022 will operate between Mumbai and Nagpur on selected dates in May 2026.
The trains are designed to provide both overnight and same-day travel options for passengers.
Major halts include Thane, Kalyan, Nashik Road, Manmad, Jalgaon, Bhusaval, Akola, Badnera and Wardha.
The services aim to improve accessibility for passengers travelling across several regions of Maharashtra.
The train composition includes AC 3-tier, sleeper class and general second-class coaches.
Both air-conditioned and non-AC travel options have been provided to suit passengers from different budget categories.
Pune-Nagpur weekend specials will also operate to improve direct connectivity between the two cities.
The Pune services will offer an alternative route for passengers who do not wish to travel via Mumbai.
Central Railway further stated that reservations for Train Nos. 01021 and 01022 will begin from April 29, 2026. Passengers can book tickets through the IRCTC Rail Connect application, PRS reservation counters and the RailOne mobile app. Railway authorities believe the newly introduced services will help reduce pressure on existing trains operating on these high-demand routes. With summer travel activity increasing rapidly across the state, the additional weekend specials are expected to provide passengers with greater convenience, easier access to confirmed tickets and improved travel flexibility. Officials have advised travellers to complete bookings early due to the anticipated rise in demand during the holiday season.