Jodhpur: There is encouraging news for passengers and devotees from the Marwar region. The Jodhpur–Delhi Sarai Rohilla Mandore Superfast Express may soon be extended up to Haridwar, giving travelers from Jodhpur and nearby areas another direct rail option to the famous pilgrimage city. The proposal is currently under consideration at the Railway Board level.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has written to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, requesting the introduction of a direct train service from Jodhpur to Haridwar. In his letter, he highlighted that a large number of devotees from the Marwar region travel to Haridwar every year for religious purposes, and a direct train would significantly ease their journey.
Pantry Car to Be Added for Long-Distance Travel
Considering the possibility of extending the Mandore Superfast Express to Haridwar, the Railways has also planned to modify the train’s composition. Orders have reportedly been issued to add a pantry car, which will provide better food facilities for passengers traveling long distances.
Several Cities Likely to Benefit
If the extension is approved, passengers from many towns along the route will benefit. Travelers from Merta City, Degana, Makrana, Kuchaman City, Nawa City, Sambhar, Phulera, and Jaipur could get direct rail connectivity to Haridwar. This move is expected to boost not only religious travel but also tourism in the region.
Maintenance Likely to Be Shifted to Jodhpur
According to railway officials, the existing rake-link system is expected to end from May 1, 2026. Under the proposed arrangement, the primary maintenance of the train may be carried out in Jodhpur, while the train will have around 15 hours of layover at Delhi Junction. This arrangement would help manage operations and maintenance more efficiently without requiring separate maintenance facilities in Haridwar.
Technical Challenges Still Remain
However, the proposal has not yet received final approval. Officials from Northern Railway have reportedly expressed concerns about extending the train to Haridwar due to heavy traffic on the Delhi–Haridwar rail section. Another issue is the shorter platform length at Haridwar railway station, which could create operational challenges for running a long train.
Possibility of Maintenance Shift Increasing
At present, the Mandore Express is maintained by Western Railway. But after the extension of the Sabarmati–Jodhpur Express to Jaisalmer, some slots on the Jodhpur route have become available. This has increased the likelihood that the primary maintenance of the Mandore Express may soon be shifted to Jodhpur, improving efficiency and allowing quicker resolution of passenger-related issues.
If the proposal is approved, it will be a major relief for thousands of travelers and pilgrims from the Marwar region who frequently visit Haridwar.
