Karnataka is set for a significant boost in railway connectivity with the imminent extension of the Vande Bharat Express from Bengaluru to Belagavi. This semi-high-speed service marks a key development in linking the Kittur Karnataka region with the state capital.
Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, V. Somanna, confirmed the approval, stating that Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw greenlit the proposal following strong regional advocacy. In March, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, alongside MPs Jagadish Shettar and Iranna Kadadi, led a delegation to New Delhi urging for Belagavi’s inclusion in the Vande Bharat network.
The train currently operates between Bengaluru and Hubballi via Dharwad. With the proposed extension, the service will begin its daily run from Belagavi in the morning, though the exact launch date is yet to be announced.
Officials stated that this move is in response to long-standing public demand, aiming to reduce travel time and offer a comfortable, faster commute. The route extension will significantly benefit daily commuters, students, working professionals, and business travellers, enhancing access to Bengaluru for work, education, and commerce.
With this addition, Bengaluru will now be connected via Vande Bharat Express to seven cities: Mysuru, Chennai, Ernakulam, Hyderabad, Dharwad, Coimbatore, and now Belagavi.
The development underscores the Centre’s commitment to regional infrastructure and is expected to be a game-changer for north Karnataka’s rail ecosystem.
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