The South Western Railway (SWR) is set to embark on a significant technical milestone as it initiates trial runs for the Vande Bharat Express on the demanding Sakleshpur-Subrahmanya Road ghat section. These trials are scheduled to take place from August 11, 2026, to August 20, 2026, marking a crucial step in potentially connecting Bengaluru and Mangaluru via the high-speed semi-luxury service. This 55-kilometer stretch of the Western Ghats is recognized as one of the most technically complex railway routes in India, known for its steep gradients and intricate terrain.
- Trial dates: August 11, 2026, to August 20, 2026.
- Route segment: 55-kilometer Sakleshpur-Subrahmanya Road ghat section.
- Infrastructure: The route features 57 tunnels, over 250 bridges, and 108 sharp curves.
- Technology: Use of an 8-coach Vande Bharat train with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB).
- Speed regulation: Maximum speed capped at 30 kmph within the ghat section.
Technical Innovations for Safe Transit
Navigating the Western Ghats requires exceptional precision. To ensure safety, the SWR has deployed a specially modified eight-coach Vande Bharat train. The standout feature of this rake is the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system. This technology is vital for the steep descent, as it automatically engages the brakes if the train exceeds the permitted speed limits. By regulating the speed to a maximum of 30 kmph, this system effectively eliminates the need for additional ‘banker engines’ that are typically required to assist trains on this steep incline.
The infrastructure supporting these trials is robust. The electrification of the entire section was completed in December 2025 at a cost of ₹93.5 crore, providing the necessary power for the electric traction of the Vande Bharat rake.
Rigorous Testing and Future Outlook
Mudit Mittal, the Divisional Railway Manager of the Mysuru Division, confirmed that a specialized team from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) will be on-site to oversee the proceedings. The RDSO team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, focusing on braking performance, crew operations, turnaround time, and overall train handling under diverse conditions.
While these trials are a major leap forward, the launch of a commercial Bengaluru-Mangaluru Vande Bharat service remains subject to the successful completion of these rigorous safety assessments and formal approval from the Railway Board. For passengers and rail enthusiasts, this development brings the prospect of a faster, more comfortable journey through the scenic Western Ghats closer to reality.