Pune Marks A Double Milestone As Deccan Queen Turns 97 And Punjab Mail Completes 115 Years On June 1
Pune, May 31, 2026: Railway enthusiasts, commuters, and history lovers will gather at Pune Railway Station on Monday morning to celebrate two iconic milestones in Indian Railways’ history — the 97th birthday of the legendary Deccan Queen and the 115th anniversary of the historic Punjab Mail.
To mark the occasion, a cake-cutting ceremony has been organized at 6:45 a.m. near the Deccan Queen engine at Pune Railway Station. Harsha Shah, President of the Railway Pravasi Group, has extended an open invitation to railway lovers and passengers to participate in the celebrations.
“It is a proud moment to honour two of India’s legendary trains that have stood the test of time,” said Shah. “These trains are more than just modes of transport — they are a part of our collective history and have connected generations of travelers.”
The Deccan Queen, launched in 1930, holds a special place in Indian railway history. Known as India’s first superfast train, it was also the first to feature a dining car. Over the decades, it introduced several innovations, including electric haulage, vestibule coaches, and a dedicated compartment for women passengers. Even today, the train remains a beloved lifeline connecting Pune and Mumbai and is regarded as a symbol of elegance, speed, and progress.
Equally significant is the Punjab Mail, which began its journey in 1912 as the ‘Punjab Limited’. One of the country’s oldest long-distance trains, it has faithfully served passengers for more than a century, linking Mumbai with Firozpur and carrying countless stories, memories, and dreams across states.
For many travelers, these trains are not merely services on a timetable but enduring symbols of India’s railway heritage. The celebration at Pune Railway Station aims to pay tribute to their remarkable legacy and the role they continue to play in the lives of millions of passengers.
The Railway Pravasi Group has invited citizens to join the event and be part of this unique celebration of India’s rich railway history.
