Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched three Vande Bharat Express trains on Sunday from KSR Bengaluru Railway Station, marking a significant step in enhancing India’s high-speed rail network. The Bengaluru–Belagavi route was flagged off in person by Modi, while the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Amritsar and Ajni (Nagpur)–Pune services were inaugurated virtually, bringing the national count of Vande Bharat trains to 150.
The event, attended by Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, drew enthusiastic crowds chanting “Modi, Modi” as the Prime Minister’s convoy arrived. Modi waved back, acknowledging the warm reception.
The Bengaluru–Belagavi Vande Bharat, Karnataka’s 11th such service, covers 611 km in just 8.5 hours, slashing travel time by 1 hour 20 minutes from Bengaluru to Belagavi and 1 hour 40 minutes on the return journey compared to existing trains. This route connects Bengaluru, India’s IT capital, with Belagavi, a hub of medical and engineering institutions, fostering economic and educational opportunities. It traverses key cities like Dharwad (educational hub), Hubballi (industrial center), Haveri (agricultural hub), Davangere (textile hub), and Tumakuru (industrial and educational center), boosting connectivity for students, professionals, farmers, and traders.
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A special inaugural train (No. 06575) departed KSR Bengaluru at 11:15 AM, reaching Belagavi by 8:00 PM, with stops at Yesvantpur, Tumakuru, Davangere, Haveri, Hubballi, and Dharwad. The train, operating six days a week (except Wednesdays), offers fares of approximately ₹1,500–₹1,700 (Chair Car) and ₹2,700–₹3,000 (Executive Chair Car).
The Katra–Amritsar service, covering 368 km in 5 hours 35 minutes, enhances pilgrim travel, while the Nagpur–Pune route (881 km in 8–12 hours) links major industrial hubs. These trains, equipped with advanced safety features like the KAVACH system and UV-C air disinfection, promise world-class comfort and efficiency.
Union Minister Vaishnaw hailed the launches as part of Modi’s vision for a “new rail era,” noting the upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper by September. The event also coincided with the inauguration of Bengaluru Metro’s Yellow Line, further elevating the city’s transport infrastructure.
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