Mumbai–Gujarat Rail Connectivity Strengthened as Weekly Special Train Service Begins Between Bandra Terminus and Palitana
Western Railway launches a new weekly special train between Bandra Terminus and Palitana from May 6, 2026, improving Mumbai–Gujarat connectivity. The service aims to ease congestion, support pilgrims, and provide a convenient overnight travel option for passengers.
The Bandra Terminus–Palitana Weekly Special, designated as Train No. 09023, will commence operations on May 6, 2026, a Wednesday. The train will depart from Bandra Terminus at 12:15 pm and is scheduled to arrive in Palitana at 5:10 am the following day, providing passengers with an efficient overnight travel option.
For the return journey, Train No. 09024, operating as the Palitana–Bandra Terminus Weekly Special, will run on May 8, 2026, a Friday. It will depart from Palitana at 5:00 pm and reach Bandra Terminus at 7:25 am the next morning.
During its journey in both directions, the train will halt at key stations including Borivali, Palghar, Vapi, Valsad, Surat, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Botad, Dhola, Songadh, and Sihor. These stops are strategically selected to serve passengers across multiple regions in Maharashtra and Gujarat.
The introduction of this additional weekly service is expected to provide substantial relief to passengers who frequently travel between the two states. With demand consistently surging, especially during weekends and festive seasons, securing confirmed tickets has often proven difficult. The new train is likely to reduce congestion, ease waiting lists, and enhance overall travel availability.
The service is also anticipated to benefit pilgrims travelling to Palitana, one of Gujarat’s most prominent religious destinations. By offering a direct and convenient route, the train improves accessibility for devotees. At the same time, business travellers and families are expected to benefit from improved connectivity and the practicality of an overnight journey.
Railway officials believe that the introduction of this service will strengthen connectivity between major commercial centres and religious destinations across Maharashtra and Gujarat. By linking important cities and towns, the weekly special train is set to serve a diverse passenger base while making inter-city travel more efficient and accessible.

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