The new semi-high-speed service aims to improve connectivity for trade, tourism, and IT professionals between Bengaluru, coastal Karnataka, and Goa.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Bengaluru-Mangaluru-Madgaon Vande Bharat Express on Friday to strengthen rail links between Bengaluru, coastal Karnataka, and Goa, according to ANI.
The Yesvantpur-Madgaon service will stop at several stations, including Hassan, Sakleshpur, Subrahmanya Road, Mangaluru, Udupi, Kundapura, Murdeshwar, Gokarna, and Karwar.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the service will enhance trade and tourism while benefiting Goan youth working in the Bengaluru IT sector. Sawant noted that Goa now has two permanent Vande Bharat routes, connecting the state to both Mumbai and Bengaluru.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that an integrated master plan will be created to develop the coastal Karnataka region. He also mentioned that work is underway to double the rail line between Mangaluru and Bengaluru.
Vaishnaw noted that the electrification of the Ghat section has been completed and dedicated to the nation. He added that Mangaluru Central station will be developed as a model station with Rs 94 crore sanctioned for the project.
According to South Western Railway, regular operations for the new service are scheduled to begin on November 15, following two inaugural special services on November 13.
