The Gondia–Kolhapur Maharashtra Express, is preparing for a significant transformation that aligns with Indian Railways’ push for safer, faster, and more sustainable travel.
Beginning June 1, 2025, the iconic train will be equipped with Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches marking a major leap forward in passenger comfort and operational efficiency. After more than five decades of service, the Maharashtra Express will finally transition from its traditional ICF (Integral Coach Factory) rakes to modern LHB stock. Known for their superior safety features and design rooted in German engineering, LHB coaches are expected to bring about a remarkable shift in how thousands of passengers experience long-distance travel across the state. The new rake will comprise 18 LHB coaches, including air-conditioned, sleeper, and general class compartments with a focus on accessibility through a Divyang-friendly coach.
From better suspension systems that reduce jerks to improved toilet hygiene, mobile charging ports, and enhanced luggage space, the upgraded train promises a considerably smoother and cleaner journey over its 1,341 km route. With a maximum operating speed of 130 kmph, these coaches also introduce enhanced safety with anti-collision features and advanced braking systems. Designed to minimise derailments and lower maintenance demands, LHB technology is not only a structural upgrade but a critical step towards modernising India’s rolling stock in a way that is both passenger-centric and environment-friendly. The Maharashtra Express connects 12 districts in the state, including major urban centres and industrial zones like Nagpur, Pune, Kolhapur, Ahmednagar (Ahilyanagar), Sangli, and Buldhana. With 62 halts along the route and a journey time of nearly 28 hours, the train serves as a crucial lifeline for intra-state connectivity, especially for rural and semi-urban communities that rely on affordable, long-distance rail services.
Beyond comfort and safety, this shift holds strategic value in Indian Railways’ broader climate and sustainability agenda. LHB coaches, being lighter and more fuel-efficient, help reduce carbon emissions and operational costs — a key factor in moving towards greener public transport infrastructure. Moreover, these efforts also align with India’s vision of building equitable, inclusive and gender-neutral transit systems. Originally introduced in 1971, the Maharashtra Express carries a deep emotional and functional legacy for the state’s commuters. Its LHB transformation is not merely a technical upgrade, but a statement of intent — to preserve the relevance of legacy trains while elevating them to meet today’s passenger expectations and tomorrow’s environmental benchmarks. As the Railways accelerates modernisation, the Maharashtra Express now becomes a symbol of the new Indian rail experience — one where legacy and innovation run on the same track.
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