Solapur-CSMT Vande Bharat Express Expands to 20 Coaches from August 28

Quick Summary

• Train Expansion Announcement: the Central Railway has decided to expand the Solapur-CSMT Mumbai Vande bharat express, adding four new Chair Car coaches starting August 28, 2025.
• increased Capacity: This upgrade increases passenger capacity by 312 additional seats, bringing the train’s total seating capacity to 1,440 passengers-making it one of the largest Vande Bharat rakes in service.
• Configuration Changes:

– Two Executive Chair Cars offering 52 seats each.
– Sixteen Chair Cars with 78 seats each.
– Two specialized Chair Cars near Loco Pilot/Guard Cabin with 44 seats each.

• Service dates:

– Train No. 22225 (CSMT Mumbai-Solapur) begins its upgraded service on August 28.
– Train No. 22226 (Solapur-CSMT Mumbai) follows on August 29.

• Purpose and Demand: The expansion aims to ease passenger rush and respond to increasing demand for premium travel facilities in the region.

Indian Opinion analysis

The augmentation of the Solapur-CSMT Mumbai Vande Bharat Express reflects strategic alignment with growing passenger demand. By becoming one of the largest rakes among Vande Bharat trains, this ensures smoother connectivity between critical urban centers in Maharashtra while addressing overcrowding-a significant concern for railway commuters. It also exemplifies a continued push towards upgrading infrastructure for faster and more comfortable transportation across India.

Given that this route has emerged as highly sought after, increasing coach numbers also showcases responsiveness from Indian Railways toward public feedback-a positive sign for efficiency-oriented governance of national transportation networks. The move is highly likely to bolster regional ties between two economic hubs and improve mobility for daily commuters and also leisure travelers.

Link source for more details: The Hindu