Pune–Lonavala EMU Local Service Turns 48, Commuters Call For More Trains
Pune–Lonavala EMU Local Service Turns 48, Commuters Call For More Trains
Pune, March 12, 2026: The Pune Division of Indian Railways celebrated the 48th anniversary of its Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) suburban train service on March 11, 2026, marking nearly five decades of commuter rail operations that have played a crucial role in daily transportation for thousands of passengers.
The EMU suburban service in the Pune region began on March 11, 1978, when the first electric suburban train started operating between Pune and Lonavala. The introduction of the electric train service was a significant milestone, providing faster and more convenient travel for daily commuters in the region.
Over the years, the suburban rail network has undergone several upgrades to accommodate the growing number of passengers. In 2009, the railway division introduced 12-coach EMU trains to increase passenger capacity on busy routes. The first 12-coach train began operations on March 23, 2009, followed by another service on April 16, 2009, significantly improving the ability to handle commuter traffic.
Later the same year, the division introduced AC-DC 12-coach EMU trains, marking another technological advancement. The first such train was launched on October 3, 2009, followed by additional services on October 10, October 25, and November 6, 2009. Shortly after, an AC traction line was commissioned on December 10, 2009, strengthening the electrification infrastructure of the suburban network.
Further modernization came in 2011 with the launch of AC 12-coach EMU trains manufactured by ICF. The first service began on October 10, 2011, with additional trains introduced in November and December the same year. During this period, retrofitted AC 12-coach EMU trains were also deployed starting July 23, 2011, and continued serving passengers until their retirement on November 7, 2018.
A major technological improvement occurred with the arrival of modern Siemens EMU train sets. The first Siemens rake was inducted on November 11, 2017, and services using these trains began two days later. These modern trains offered improved reliability, advanced technology, and enhanced passenger comfort.
Operational efficiency also improved over time. On November 18, 2019, an IA maintenance schedule was introduced for EMU rakes, strengthening safety standards and maintenance practices for suburban services.
Another important development took place on February 6, 2023, when an EMU terminus at Shivajinagar was inaugurated, helping streamline train operations and management for suburban services around Pune.
Over the past 48 years, the Pune–Lonavala EMU service has become a vital lifeline for daily commuters, including office workers, students, and laborers. From the first electric suburban train in 1978 to the modern EMU rakes operating today, the Pune Railway Division continues to expand and modernize its suburban transport network.
However, railway commuters have pointed out that despite the introduction of automatic signalling between Pune and Lonavala, the number of local train services has not increased significantly. Commuter representatives say that, similar to routes like Badlapur–Kalyan, where locals run every 10–15 minutes due to advanced signalling systems, the frequency of Pune–Lonavala suburban trains should also be increased.
Meanwhile, commuters have welcomed the recent decision by the Maharashtra government to contribute its share to the Pune–Lonavala quadrupling railway project through MRVC. Passenger groups have urged the central government and the Railway Ministry to begin the project soon, stating that expanding the rail corridor will help meet the future transportation needs of the region and reduce pressure on the limited suburban train services.
