The Pune-Ajni AC Express faced sharp criticism after arriving in Nagpur approximately five hours behind schedule on Saturday, causing significant hardship for passengers. According to Nitin Solanke, a member of the Zonal Railway Users' Consultative Committee (ZRUCC), Train No. 22123 departed Pune at 3:15 pm on Friday and was scheduled to reach Nagpur at 5:00 am on Saturday, but it arrived only around 10:00 am. The same train had also been delayed by eight hours while traveling to Pune from Ajni Station.
Passenger Complaints and Alleged Negligence
Raising the issue, Solanke alleged that passengers were forced to endure multiple hardships during the delayed journey. He claimed that no attendant was available in AC coach B-3, leaving passengers without assistance. Furthermore, the prolonged delay led to a shortage of water in the train's toilets, while no alternative arrangements for drinking water or other basic amenities were made by the railway administration.
Pantry Service Criticized
Solanke also criticized the onboard pantry service, claiming that it failed to adequately cater to passengers during the delay. According to him, children, senior citizens, and other travelers faced considerable inconvenience due to the lack of timely food and water. The ZRUCC member said the delay disrupted the plans of several passengers who were scheduled to reach Nagpur early in the morning for work, business, and personal commitments.
Questioning Service Quality
He also questioned the quality of service being provided on a train marketed as an AC Express, stating that passengers were paying higher fares but were not receiving corresponding levels of service. Referring to complaints received from passengers, Solanke said many sarcastically suggested that the Pune–Ajni AC Express should be renamed a 'passenger train' if it continued to operate with such delays and poor onboard facilities.
Demand for Inquiry and Action
Demanding immediate intervention, Solanke urged the Nagpur Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) to order an inquiry into the alleged absence of an attendant in coach B-3, deficiencies in pantry services, shortage of water in toilets, and the reasons behind the train's substantial delay. He also sought strict action against those found responsible and called for measures to ensure that passengers do not face similar hardships in the future.
