Deccan Queen Express: A Train for the “Queen of Deccan”

On 1st June 2024 Pune Division of Indian Railways celebrated the 95th birthday of the historic and perhaps one of the most famous trains of India known as Deccan Queen Express. The Deccan Queen Express, also known as the “Dakkhan ki Rani” (Queen of the Deccan), is one of India’s most iconic trains.

Origins and Inception

  1. Introduction: The Deccan Queen Express was introduced on June 1, 1930. It was originally operated by the Great Indian Peninsula Railway (GIPR), the forerunner of the Central Railway zone of Indian Railways.
  2. Purpose: The train was launched to cater to the growing number of commuters, primarily the British officials, who traveled between the two important cities of Mumbai (then Bombay) and Pune.

Early Features

  1. Firsts: Being one of the first premium trains in India, Deccan Queen holds several firsts in the Indian Railways:
  • It was the first superfast train in India.
  • It was the first long-distance electric train in India.
  • It introduced the first ladies’ only car in Indian Railways.
  • Deccan Queen was the first train in India to have a Dining Car.
  1. Luxury and Comfort: Known for its punctuality and speed, the Deccan Queen was also famous for its comfort and luxury. It had a well-appointed dining car, and the coaches were painted in a distinctive blue and silver livery.

Post-Independence Changes

  1. Post-Independence Era: After India gained independence in 1947, the management and operations of the Deccan Queen were taken over by Indian Railways. The train has continued to enjoy a prestigious status and is regularly upgraded to maintain its quality and comfort. From June 22, 2022 the train has been converted to LHB from the ICF rakes to increase the comfort of the passengers. Vistadom coach has also been attached in the train to enable passengers to enjoy the scenic view of the the Western Ghats.
  2. Electrification: The Mumbai-Pune route was electrified in the 1950s, and the Deccan Queen became one of the first trains to be hauled by electric locomotives, further reducing travel time.

Modernization and Current Status

  1. Upgrades: Over the decades, the Deccan Queen has undergone several upgrades in terms of speed, safety, and amenities. The coaches have been modernized, and the train has consistently maintained high standards of service.
  2. Schedule and Operations: As of today, the Deccan Queen operates daily between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai and Pune Junction. It covers a distance of approximately 192 kilometers (about 119 miles) in around 3 hours.
  3. Facilities: The train is equipped with air-conditioned chair cars, non-AC chair cars, and a dining car that serves a variety of meals. It is known for its punctuality and is a preferred choice for daily commuters as well as occasional travelers.

Cultural Significance

  1. Cultural Impact: The Deccan Queen has been an integral part of the lives of many people in Maharashtra. It is not just a mode of transportation but also a symbol of the historical and cultural ties between Mumbai and Pune.
  2. Celebrations and Milestones: The train’s anniversaries are celebrated with great enthusiasm. For instance, the 95th anniversary in 2024 was marked with special events and commemorations by the Indian Railways and its passengers.
95th Birthday Celebration of Deccan Queen Express

The Deccan Queen Express continues to be one of the most beloved and reliable trains in India, maintaining a legacy of over nine decades of service.

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