The Indian Railways has approved a new Vande Bharat Express service between Bengaluru and Belagavi. Contrary to earlier reports suggesting an extension of the existing Bengaluru–Dharwad Vande Bharat, this will be an entirely new service with a dedicated rake allocated to the South Western Railway (SWR) zone.
According to a senior railway official cited by Deccan Herald, the new train will commence operations from Belagavi in the morning, reaching KSR Bengaluru in the afternoon. The return journey will begin in the afternoon, concluding in Belagavi by late evening. Initially, the train will consist of eight coaches, with the possibility of adding more based on passenger demand. The primary maintenance of the train will be carried out in Belagavi.
This decision comes after the railways conducted a trial run on November 21, 2023, covering the 610.6 km distance in approximately 7 hours and 55 minutes, which is nearly two hours faster than the current fastest train on the route. However, plans to extend the Dharwad train faced opposition from various quarters, including political leaders from the twin cities, leading to the decision to introduce a separate service.
The train is expected to halt at key stations including Londa, Dharwad, Hubballi, Haveri, Davangere, Tumakuru, and Yeshwantpur.
In a letter dated May 6, 2025, addressed to Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the approval of the new service, stating:
“You would be pleased to know that the new Belagavi–Bengaluru Vande Bharat train has been approved. The service will leave Belagavi in the morning for Bengaluru. In return, it will start from Bengaluru in the afternoon for Belagavi.”
While this confirmation is a positive step forward, the exact commencement date and detailed schedule are yet to be officially announced. Passengers and stakeholders are advised to await formal notifications from the railway authorities for further details.
This is good news. That Dharwad Bangalore vande Bharat has odd timings. People travel towards metro city in the morning and return to their city in evening. And not vice versa.
What about belgaum to mumbai vande bharat
As there was an opposition from Dharwad Hubli people for the extension, the new service should not have stops in Dharwad and Hubli. Why should they get 2 Vande Bharats?
Very nice step. Thanks lot for providing separate facility for the route.