Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has announced a significant update on the long-awaited rail connectivity upgrade between Karnataka and Maharashtra, confirming that the proposed Vande Bharat Sleeper between Bengaluru and Mumbai will operate via the Kalyana Karnataka region.
Sharing the development on social media, Joshi stated that the Central Government has approved the new service from KSR Bengaluru to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. The route, as confirmed, will pass through the Kalyana Karnataka belt, a move aimed at improving connectivity and boosting economic activity in the region.
The announcement, however, comes with a key clarification that may disappoint many in North Karnataka. There was a strong expectation that the Vande Bharat Sleeper would run via Belagavi, given its strategic importance and growing passenger demand. However, the newly approved sleeper service will not pass through Belagavi.
Instead, Joshi highlighted that the already sanctioned Bengaluru–Mumbai Superfast train will cater to this route. This train is planned to run via Tumakuru, Davangere, Haveri, Hubballi-Dharwad and Belagavi, and is expected to be operational soon. Importantly, he added that there is a proposal under active and positive consideration to eventually upgrade this Superfast service into a Vande Bharat Sleeper in the future.
The dual development indicates a phased approach—while Kalyana Karnataka gets immediate access to the Vande Bharat Sleeper, the Belagavi route is set to benefit through the Superfast service, with potential for an upgrade later.
Calling it a major step forward, Joshi said the new services will enhance connectivity between the IT hub Bengaluru and the commercial capital Mumbai, while also accelerating trade, mobility, and regional development across Karnataka.
He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Minister of State V. Somanna for their support in advancing the project.