Indian Railways is planning to launch a Vande Bharat Express service connecting Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Madgaon in Goa. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw mentioned on April 25, 2026, that this service should be available within the next few months. The train will run through the scenic Western Ghats and Konkan route to improve connectivity and boost tourism.
What are the proposed timings and route?
The railway ministry proposed the service between Yesvantpur in Bengaluru and Madgaon. SWR officials suggested Yesvantpur as the starting point due to a lack of maintenance slots at KSR Bengaluru. The proposed schedule is as follows:
| Direction | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yesvantpur to Madgaon | 6:05 AM | 7:15 PM | 13h 10m |
| Madgaon to Yesvantpur | 5:30 AM | 6:40 PM | 13h 10m |
What features and benefits will the train offer?
The Vande Bharat train is designed for high-speed travel and passenger comfort. It includes several modern features to make the journey better for travelers:
- Maximum speed capability of 180 Kmph
- KAVACH safety system for accident prevention
- Automatic plug doors and CCTV surveillance
- On-board WiFi and comfortable seating
- Bio-toilets for hygiene
What are the technical challenges on this route?
The route involves complex ghat sections between Sakleshpur and Subrahmanya Road with steep gradients and sharp curves. Currently, the Vande Bharat trains lack an Auto Emergency Brake (AEB) system required for this terrain. SWR is seeking approval from RDSO to equip the trains with AEBs, which may take several months. As a temporary measure, the railways are considering attaching additional locomotives for the ghat sections.