Bengaluru: Rail travel between Bengaluru and Mangaluru may soon get a major upgrade, with a Vande Bharat Express service expected to be introduced on the busy coastal route. The announcement has raised hopes among passengers who have long sought a faster and more comfortable train connection between the two cities.

Long-Pending Demand May Be Met

Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna has indicated that the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express is planned for the Bengaluru-Mangaluru sector. The route is widely used by business travellers, students and tourists, but has faced challenges due to difficult terrain.

In a social media post late Monday night, Somanna said the wait for the Mangaluru region could soon end. He added that the iconic train is likely to run through Karnataka’s Western Ghats, fulfilling a long-standing public demand.

ALSO READ: Amid Food Delivery Strike, Magicpin’s CEO Joins Delivery Team On New Year's Eve, Says 'No Impact' Of Gig Workers' Protest

Electrification Clears Major Hurdle

A major reason for the renewed push is the completion of electrification work on the critical ghat section between Sakaleshpura and Subrahmanya Road. According to a PTI report, the 55-km stretch has now been fully electrified.

Somanna described the development as a key infrastructure achievement, stating that full electrification allows electric locomotives to operate seamlessly on the route.

Why the Upgrade Matters

Officials said the electrification will bring several benefits:

  • Enables full electric traction on the ghat section

  • Improves travel speed and operational efficiency

  • Reduces dependence on diesel engines

  • Supports cleaner and more energy-efficient rail operations

The upgrade is also expected to strengthen rail connectivity between Bengaluru and coastal Karnataka.

ALSO READ: Bengaluru New Year Traffic Advisory: Flyovers Closed, Key Roads Restricted Till January 1; Check Diversions

Social Media Push Adds Momentum

The minister’s statement came in response to a post by former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai, who once again highlighted the long-pending demand for a Vande Bharat service on this route.

While an official launch date has not yet been announced, railway officials say the recent infrastructure upgrades have brought the Bengaluru-Mangaluru Vande Bharat proposal much closer to reality.