Bengaluru–Shivamogga Vande Bharat Express Anticipated to Launch Soon, Boosting Travel in Central Karnataka

Bengaluru is set to enhance its high-speed rail network with the forthcoming introduction of the Bengaluru–Shivamogga Vande Bharat Express, aimed at strengthening train connections between the capital and central Karnataka. The new service is expected to provide significant benefits for students, professionals, and business travellers commuting between the two cities.

The announcement was made by Bengaluru Central MP P C Mohan, who posted on the social media platform X, stating, "Shivamogga–Bengaluru Vande Bharath soon." While the exact launch date and timetable have yet to be confirmed, the service has been eagerly anticipated by residents of Shivamogga, located approximately 300 kilometres from Bengaluru.

There has been consistent demand from Shivamogga residents for a Vande Bharat connection to Bengaluru, especially following the city’s recent infrastructure upgrades, including the inauguration of Shivamogga Airport by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023. The new train service is expected to complement air connectivity and offer a reliable, comfortable rail alternative for frequent travellers.

Once operational, the Shivamogga route will become Karnataka’s twelfth Vande Bharat Express, further expanding the state’s premium railway network. With this addition, Bengaluru will be directly connected by Vande Bharat trains to seven major cities: Mysuru, Chennai, Ernakulam, Hyderabad, Dharwad, Coimbatore, and Belagavi. The high-speed trains are designed to significantly reduce journey times whilst enhancing passenger comfort with modern amenities.

In May of this year, Karnataka saw the launch of the Bengaluru–Belagavi Vande Bharat Express, which operates on a convenient day-return basis. The train departs Belagavi early in the morning, reaches Bengaluru by noon, and returns in the afternoon, arriving back by evening. With the inclusion of the Shivamogga route, Vande Bharat trains are playing a pivotal role in transforming public transport across the state.