Bengaluru: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday flagged off three Vande Bharat Express trains, including the much-anticipated Bengaluru–Belagavi service. Modi inaugurated the Bengaluru–Belagavi train in person, while launching the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Amritsar and Ajni (Nagpur)–Pune services virtually.
According to officials, the new trains will boost regional connectivity, cut travel time, and offer passengers a “world-class” travel experience. Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw were among the dignitaries present.
Crowds lined both sides of the road to greet the Prime Minister with chants of “Modi, Modi” as his convoy approached the railway station, to which Modi responded by waving from his car.
The Bengaluru–Belagavi service becomes Karnataka’s 11th Vande Bharat Express. Covering 611 km in just 8.5 hours, it is now the fastest train between the two cities—saving about 1 hour 20 minutes from Bengaluru to Belagavi and 1 hour 40 minutes on the return journey compared to existing options.
Connecting Bengaluru, the country’s technology hub, with Belagavi—known for its leading medical and engineering institutions—the train is expected to strengthen economic and educational ties. The route passes through Karnataka’s sugarcane belt and key cities such as Dharwad (a centre for premier educational institutions), Hubballi (a commercial and industrial hub), Haveri (an emerging agricultural centre), Davangere (noted for textiles and agriculture), and Tumakuru (a growing industrial and educational hub).
The Railways said the improved connectivity will benefit students, professionals, farmers, and traders by providing faster access to Bengaluru’s opportunities, while fostering economic growth and cultural exchange.
Following the inauguration, a special train (No. 06575) departed KSR Bengaluru at 11:15 AM for Belagavi, arriving at 8:00 PM with stops at Yesvantpur, Tumakuru, Davangere, SMM Haveri, SSS Hubballi, and Dharwad.
