Pune: Vande Bharat Express Maintenance Depot Construction to Commence in Ghorpadi
PUNE – The Pune railway division is set to begin the construction of a coach maintenance depot in Ghorpadi, dedicated to the maintenance and repair of Vande Bharat Express rakes. The initiation of the tender process is on the horizon, with the project’s completion expected to span at least one year.
Indu Dubey, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of the Pune Division, shared insights into the future of Vande Bharat Express services in the region. Potential routes under consideration include Pune-Secunderabad and Pune-Baroda, though decisions by the railway board are pending. Dubey highlighted the necessity of a coach depot for the operation of Vande Bharat Express, stating that both a Pit Line and a Stabbing Line will be constructed at the site.
This development follows the recent inauguration of various railway projects by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The depot, an essential facility for the upkeep of Vande Bharat rakes, represents a significant investment of approximately ₹89 crore by the railway construction department. It will mark the second such facility for Central Railway, accommodating the maintenance and repair of three Vande Bharat rakes.
The completion of this depot will pave the way for the introduction of Vande Bharat services from Pune, enhancing the connectivity and efficiency of rail travel in the region. Currently, the Solapur-Mumbai Vande Bharat Express operates from Pune station, with maintenance performed at the Wadi Bandar depot in Mumbai’s Central Railway section. This new depot in Pune, featuring a first-of-its-kind covered (roof) Pit Line, is a critical step toward launching Vande Bharat Express services in the division, ensuring the safety and durability of the modern coaches.
