Passengers opt for more affordable travel options despite the train’s modern features. Pune: The much-anticipated Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat Express, launched by the Ministry of Railways, has received a tepid response from passengers. The primary reason cited is the comparatively high fare ...
Passenger associations have pointed out that the absence of sleeper coaches in the Vande Bharat Express has further limited its appeal. Many travellers have demanded that fares be reduced, especially given the availability of several other trains operating between Pune and Nagpur throughout the day at significantly lower prices.Passengers opt for more affordable travel options despite the train’s modern features. Pune: The much-anticipated Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat Express, launched by the Ministry of Railways, has received a tepid response from passengers. The primary reason cited is the comparatively high fare structure, with many travellers choosing other trains offering more cost-effective options.According to a member of the Railway Passengers’ Association, there are around nine trains connecting Pune to Nagpur including, Azad Hind Express, Maharashtra Express, Garib Rath, Howrah Duronto, Ajni Express, and Nagpur Express — all running at different times, giving passengers flexibility in planning their journeys.Sleeper buses on this route charge about ₹2,000, while seating-only buses cost around ₹1,000, with a journey time of roughly 14 hours. Although the Vande Bharat Express completes the journey in about 12 hours, it operates only once in the morning, limiting convenience for many.