The Pune railway division is gearing up to launch the construction of a coach maintenance depot at Ghorpadi, dedicated to the upkeep and repair of Vande Bharat Express rakes, a significant development poised to enhance operational efficiency and service reliability.
According to Indu Dubey, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Pune Division, the initiation of the tender process for this crucial infrastructure project is imminent, with expectations for the work to span approximately one year. The depot’s establishment marks a pivotal step in facilitating the operation of Vande Bharat Express services on key routes, including Pune-Secunderabad and Pune-Baroda, pending final approval from the railway board.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated several railway projects, underscoring the government’s commitment to bolstering the nation’s transportation infrastructure. Among these initiatives, the commencement of the tender process for the maintenance and repair of Vande Bharat Express rakes signifies a significant stride towards enhancing passenger connectivity and service quality.
The construction of the maintenance depot, entrusted to the railway construction department, is slated to incur an estimated cost of ₹89 crore, signaling a substantial investment in bolstering the region’s railway infrastructure. Once operational, the facility will serve as the second depot under Central Railway’s purview, catering to the maintenance needs of three Vande Bharat rakes.
The impending launch of Vande Bharat services from Pune holds promise for commuters, offering swift and efficient connectivity along key travel corridors. Presently, the Solapur-Mumbai Vande Bharat Express operates from Pune station, with maintenance and repair activities conducted at the Wadi Bandar depot in the Mumbai section of Central Railway.
The unique design and specifications of Vande Bharat coaches necessitate specialized facilities for maintenance, underscoring the importance of establishing dedicated depots equipped with modern infrastructure. With the advent of the Ghorpadi maintenance depot, Pune stands poised to emerge as a strategic hub for enhancing rail connectivity and service excellence.
