The dream of a high-speed rail connection between Coastal Karnataka and Bengaluru has moved a step closer to reality, with a trial run of the Vande Bharat Express expected to be conducted on the challenging Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya Road ghat section later this month.

According to railway officials, the trial is likely to take place in the last week of June on the 55-km stretch of the Hassan–Mangaluru railway line, one of the most technically demanding sections in the state.

Special braking system to be tested

The trial will be conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) under the Ministry of Railways.

As per safety regulations issued by the Commissioner of Railway Safety, trains operating on the ghat section are restricted to a maximum speed of 30 kmph. To comply with this requirement, the Vande Bharat train has been fitted with a special Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system.

The technology is designed to automatically reduce the train’s speed if it exceeds the prescribed limit, ensuring safer operations through the steep gradients and sharp curves of the Western Ghats.

Railway officials said the specially equipped Vande Bharat rake is being prepared at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and is expected to arrive in Karnataka shortly.

Previous trials successful

Mudit Mittal, Divisional Railway Manager of Mysuru Division, South Western Railway, said trial runs involving ICF and LHB coaches have already been successfully completed on the ghat section.

“The Vande Bharat trial is the only remaining step. A special rake fitted with the AEB system is being readied for the purpose,” he said.

The tests conducted earlier this month involved five trips over five days, during which all technical and safety parameters were successfully achieved.

Major boost for Coastal Karnataka

If the upcoming trial is successful and receives approval from RDSO and the Railway Ministry, a major technical hurdle preventing Vande Bharat operations between Bengaluru and Mangaluru will be removed.

The service is expected to significantly reduce travel time while offering passengers a faster, more comfortable and modern travel experience.

The development comes after the completion of route electrification in December 2025, including the difficult Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya stretch.

Railway officials believe the successful trial could soon lead to the launch of the long-awaited Vande Bharat service connecting Bengaluru with Coastal Karnataka, benefiting thousands of passengers travel