Western Railway has unveiled a weekly special train operating between Bandra Terminus and Palitana to accommodate the increasing passenger demand. This service aims to alleviate crowding, particularly during weekends and peak travel times.
The Bandra Terminus–Palitana Weekly Special (Train No. 09023) commenced service on May 6, 2026. It departs from Bandra Terminus at 12:15 pm and arrives in Palitana at 5:10 am the next day. The return service (Train No. 09024) is scheduled for May 8, 2026, departing Palitana at 5 pm and reaching Bandra Terminus at 7:25 am the following morning.
The train will make stops at several major stations along the route in both directions, including Borivali, Palghar, Vapi, Valsad, Surat, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Botad, Dhola, Songadh, and Sihor. These stops are anticipated to enhance connectivity for passengers traveling across various regions of Gujarat and Maharashtra.
This additional service arrives at a time when demand for tickets on the Mumbai–Gujarat route remains substantial. Passengers commonly encounter long waiting lists, especially during holidays and festive seasons. The new train is expected to alleviate this issue and improve the likelihood of securing confirmed bookings.
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The service is also expected to assist pilgrims heading to Palitana, a renowned religious site. A direct train option simplifies the journey and eliminates the need for multiple transfers. Additionally, business travelers and families will benefit from a more convenient overnight travel choice.
Officials stated that this initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and provide improved travel facilities. By introducing more services on high-demand routes, the railways aim to enhance passenger experience and manage crowd distribution more effectively. It serves as a practical solution for both regular commuters and occasional travelers.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
First Published: May 6, 2026 6:04 PM IST
