Mangaluru: The Railway Department has officially granted permanent status to the Vijayapura–Mangaluru Central Express Special (Train Nos. 17377/17378).
Initially introduced as a special service, the train was halted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Operations resumed in December 2021, and by 2024, it began running regularly between Mangaluru Central and Vijayapura. In June this year, the service was made permanent, with the department releasing a formal notification on Tuesday.
Starting September 1, the express will operate permanently from Vijayapura, and from September 2, it will run permanently from Mangaluru Central.
As per the new schedule, the train will depart from Mangaluru Central at 4:45 pm, arriving in Vijayapura at 11:15 am the following day. In the reverse direction, it will leave Vijayapura at 3:00 pm and reach Mangaluru Central at 9:50 am the next morning.
Officials stated that making the service permanent will benefit regular commuters, business travellers, and tourists by ensuring consistent connectivity between the coastal city of Mangaluru and the northern districts of Karnataka. The move is also expected to boost trade and tourism, providing a reliable travel option for passengers year-round.
The decision reflects Indian Railways’ ongoing efforts to restore and strengthen train services disrupted during the pandemic, ensuring smoother travel experiences for passengers.