Mangaluru: As approved by the Railway Board, new Amrit Bharat Express train services will be introduced between Nagercoil Junction and Mangaluru Junction, and between Thiruvananthapuram North and Charlapalli stations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off three Amrit Bharat Express trains and one passenger train on Friday from Thiruvananthapuram, marking a major step towards strengthening long-distance rail connectivity along the west coast of India.
The new service will directly connect the southern tip of Tamil Nadu with coastal Karnataka via Kerala, significantly enhancing passenger movement across three states. Railway officials said the introduction of these trains aligns with the Centre’s objective of providing faster, affordable and reliable rail services for the common man while improving regional connectivity.
Weekly Amrit Bharat service announced
The Railway Board has approved Train No. 16329/16330 Nagercoil Junction–Mangaluru Junction Amrit Bharat Weekly Express. The train will operate via several key stations across Kerala, including Thiruvananthapuram Central, Kollam, Chengannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam Town, Thrissur, Shoranur, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod, among others.
Officials said the routing has been designed to serve major population centres along Kerala’s coastline, offering an efficient travel option for passengers commuting between Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.
Boost to coastal connectivity and economy
The introduction of the Amrit Bharat Express on this route is expected to significantly improve long-distance travel along the west coast. Railway authorities said the service will ensure faster and more dependable connectivity compared to existing passenger options, while remaining affordable for a wide range of travellers.
The train is also expected to promote tourism by improving access to coastal destinations across the three states. In addition, enhanced rail connectivity is likely to support fisheries, small-scale trade and other coastal economic activities that depend on efficient transportation networks.
Officials noted that improved interstate rail links contribute to stronger economic integration by facilitating the movement of people, goods and services across regions.
Inaugural special train details
As part of the inauguration, Train No. 06329 Thiruvananthapuram Central–Mangaluru Junction Amrit Bharat Express Special will be flagged off on January 23. The special service will mark the formal launch of the new connectivity initiative.
According to the announced schedule, the inaugural train will depart from Thiruvananthapuram Central at 10.45 am on Friday and reach Mangaluru Junction at 1 am the following day.
Coach composition and passenger facilities
The Amrit Bharat Express has been designed to cater primarily to long-distance passengers seeking economical travel options. The coach composition of the inaugural service includes eight sleeper class coaches and 11 general second class coaches.
In addition, the train will have one pantry car to provide catering services to passengers during the journey. Two general second class-cum-luggage brake van coaches, which are Divyangjan-friendly, have also been included to ensure accessibility and convenience for passengers with disabilities.
Railway officials said the Amrit Bharat trains are equipped with improved passenger amenities, better seating and sleeping arrangements, and enhanced safety features compared to conventional passenger trains.
Part of a larger rail modernisation push
The launch of the new Amrit Bharat services forms part of Indian Railways’ broader strategy to modernise passenger transport and improve connectivity between important regional centres. These trains are aimed at bridging the gap between premium services and conventional passenger trains by offering upgraded facilities at affordable fares.
Officials added that feedback from passengers on newly introduced Amrit Bharat routes will be used to further refine services and identify additional corridors for expansion in the future.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Amrit Bharat Express between Nagercoil and Mangaluru marks a significant milestone in strengthening west coast rail connectivity. By linking Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka through a reliable and affordable service, the new train is expected to benefit passengers, boost tourism and contribute to economic activity across the region.