In a move that could significantly enhance connectivity between Karnataka and Goa, the Railway Ministry has proposed a new Vande Bharat Express service between Yesvantpur railway station and Madgaon railway station via the coastal railway region.
The proposal comes shortly after Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced plans for expanded Vande Bharat connectivity along the coast. Notably, the proposed service will bypass Mangaluru Junction and Mangaluru Central stations, operating instead through the Padil bypass to reduce travel time.
Tentative schedule and journey time
As per the draft timetable, the train from Yesvantpur will depart at 6.05 a.m., reach Padil at 2 p.m., and arrive in Madgaon at 7.15 p.m., taking approximately 13 hours and 10 minutes. The return service will leave Madgaon at 5.30 a.m. and reach Yesvantpur at 6.40 p.m.
Two rakes will be required for daily operations, one originating from each end.
Speed challenges in Ghat section
The South Western Railway (SWR) has noted that the average speed is currently below 50 kmph due to restrictions in the Sakleshpur Ghat section. Plans are underway to enhance speed limits between Chikka Banawara and Hassan, and in the Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya stretch, subject to infrastructure upgrades.
Trial runs using rakes equipped with Automatic Emergency Braking systems will be mandatory before final approval. Certification of overhead electrical equipment on the Hassan–Thokur section is also required.
If implemented, the service could offer faster and more comfortable travel for passengers between Bengaluru, coastal Karnataka and Goa, strengthening tourism and regional connectivity.