India's first push-pull Rajdhani Express has now completed seven successful years of operation. This innovative train service continues to connect Mumbai and Delhi with improved efficiency.
A Revolutionary Launch and Rapid Expansion
The Central Railway zone launched this premium service on January 19, 2019. It began as a bi-weekly operation, running just twice each week. Passenger response proved overwhelmingly positive from the very beginning.
Within only eight months, railway authorities increased the frequency significantly. Starting September 13, 2019, the train began operating four days every week. The service received another major upgrade on its second anniversary. Since January 19, 2021, this Rajdhani Express has run daily without interruption.
Understanding Push-Pull Technology
The push-pull configuration represents a significant technological advancement for Indian Railways. This system places one locomotive at the front of the train and another at the rear. Both engines work together to propel the train forward.
This innovative approach eliminates the traditional need for banker engines in ghat sections. Banker engines typically assist trains on steep gradients. By removing the attachment and detachment process for these helper engines, the push-pull system saves considerable time. The result is a noticeably reduced overall journey duration for passengers.
Route and Operational Details
This historic train operates between two major terminals: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai and Hazrat Nizamuddin Station in Delhi. The Central Railway zone maintains and operates this premium service with careful attention.
Initially numbered 22221 and 22222, the train started with specific coach configurations. The original setup included one First AC coach, three AC 2-Tier coaches, eight AC 3-Tier coaches, and one pantry car. Railway authorities quickly augmented this arrangement within the first month of operation.
The enhanced configuration now features one First AC coach, five AC 2-Tier coaches, twelve AC 3-Tier coaches, and one pantry car. This expansion accommodated growing passenger demand while maintaining premium service standards.
Current Schedule and Timings
The train follows a consistent daily schedule in both directions. From Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, departure occurs at 16:00 hours each day. The train arrives at Hazrat Nizamuddin in Delhi at 09:55 hours the following morning.
For the return journey from Delhi, departure happens at 16:55 hours daily. The train reaches Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus at 11:15 hours the next day. This schedule provides reliable connectivity between India's financial capital and national capital.
Key Stoppages Along the Route
During its journey between Mumbai and Delhi, this Rajdhani Express makes eight important stops. These strategic stoppages allow passengers from various regions to access this premium service.
- Kalyan
- Nashik Road
- Jalgaon
- Bhusaval
- Bhopal
- V Lakshmibai JHS
- Gwalior
- Agra Cantt
These stations represent major cities and transportation hubs along the route. Each stop provides connectivity to surrounding regions while maintaining the train's overall schedule efficiency.
The seven-year journey of India's first push-pull Rajdhani Express demonstrates technological progress in Indian Railways. This service continues to offer passengers a reliable and efficient connection between Mumbai and Delhi. The train's growing popularity and operational improvements reflect its successful implementation of push-pull technology.
