India, Sept. 18 -- The Central Railway launched its first daily direct train service between Beed and Pune on Thursday, providing a new rail connection between Marathwada and western Maharashtra.

Deputy chief minister Sunetra Pawar, MP Bajrang Sonawane, MLA Sandeep Kshirsagar, among others, flagged off the inaugural special train (01401) from Beed station.

"Today, I express pride and satisfaction as a daughter of Marathwada that the direct Beed-Pune railway service, awaited for many decades, has finally stared," said Pawar.

The inaugural train will halt at Amalner Bhandyache, New Ashti, Narayandoho, Ahilyanagar, Shrigonda Road, Daund Chord Line and Uruli before reaching Pune. It will comprise two AC 2-tier coaches, three AC 3-tier coac...