A Major Boost for Travellers
In a move that will bring relief to thousands of passengers, Central Railway has extended the operational period for 216 special train services. This decision was announced to cater to the sustained high demand for travel on key corridors, particularly
connecting Maharashtra with states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The extension is a significant step towards ensuring passenger convenience and providing more travel options during a busy period. The railway has confirmed that this update covers both daily and weekly special train services, adding substantial capacity to the network. According to Central Railway, the extension has been prompted by increasing travel demand, highlighting the railways' responsive approach to passenger needs. Critically for those who have already planned their journeys, there will be no changes to the existing timetables, routes, or scheduled stops for these trains. This ensures that travel plans remain undisturbed, with the only change being the welcome availability of services for a longer duration.
Pune to Danapur Daily Services Extended
One of the most significant extensions is on the high-demand Pune-Danapur route. The Daily Special (Train No. 01449) from Pune to Danapur, which was previously scheduled to run until July 15, 2026, will now continue its services from July 16 to September 28, 2026. This adds a total of 75 additional services. In the return direction, the Danapur-Pune Daily Special (Train No. 01450), originally slated to end on July 17, 2026, has been extended to run from July 18 to September 30, 2026. The coach composition for these trains will remain unchanged, consisting of one AC-2 tier, five AC-3 tier, six sleeper coaches, four General Second Class coaches, and two Second Seating coaches with a brake van, catering to a wide range of travellers.
Key Weekly Special Train Extensions
Beyond daily services, Central Railway has also extended the periodicity of several crucial weekly special trains, adding a total of 66 weekly services across various routes. For instance, the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) to Kanpur weekly special (Train No. 04152) will now run from July 18 to September 26, 2026, providing 11 additional trips. Similarly, other weekly services connecting major hubs have also been extended until late September, offering more flexibility for weekend and planned travel. While the announcements cover multiple railway zones, the focus remains on decongesting popular routes and providing confirmed travel options for passengers who might otherwise struggle to find tickets.
Solapur to Anakapalle Route
In a related move benefiting passengers travelling between Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, the South Coast Railway has extended the special train services between Solapur and Anakapalle due to high passenger demand. The weekly special from Solapur to Anakapalle (Train No. 01477), running on Fridays, will now continue from July 17, 2026, to September 25, 2026. The return train from Anakapalle to Solapur (Train No. 01478) will operate every Saturday, with its service extended from July 18, 2026, to September 26, 2026. This extension provides much-needed connectivity for those travelling for work, education, or pilgrimage along this route.
How to Book and Stay Updated
Reservations for the extended trips on these special trains are opening in phases and can be made through all computerised reservation centres and on the official IRCTC website. For passengers planning to travel in unreserved coaches, tickets can be purchased via the UTS mobile app and at station counters. Given that schedules can sometimes be subject to change due to operational reasons, Central Railway has advised all passengers to check the latest train information and schedules on the NTES app or the official railway enquiry portal before commencing their journey. This ensures you have the most current information for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
