PM Modi Launches Yesvantpur-Madgaon Vande Bharat Express!
PM Modi flags off the Yesvantpur-Madgaon Vande Bharat Express. Check the new coastal route, schedule, and important changes to existing services.
In a major boost to rail connectivity between Karnataka and Goa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially flagged off the new Yesvantpur–Madgaon Vande Bharat Express. The inauguration, held on Friday, November 13, 2026, promises to transform travel for tourists and locals alike, offering a premium and efficient link to the beautiful coastal regions.
Commercial operations for this highly anticipated service are set to begin on November 15, 2026. This launch marks a significant shift in the regional rail network, as it will also lead to the permanent discontinuation of the existing Madgaon–Mangaluru Central–Madgaon Vande Bharat Express service starting from the same date.
Route and Journey Timings
The new service is designed to provide a seamless connection through some of India's most scenic landscapes. The train will operate six days a week, following a beautiful coastal route. Passengers can expect the following journey durations:
- From Bengaluru (Yesvantpur) to Madgaon: Approximately 13 hours and 20 minutes.
- From Madgaon to Bengaluru (Yesvantpur): Approximately 12 hours and 55 minutes.
To help passengers plan their trips, please note the specific non-operational days for each leg of the journey:
- Train No. 26655 (Yesvantpur to Madgaon): Will not operate on Wednesdays.
- Train No. 26656 (Madgaon to Yesvantpur): Will not operate on Thursdays.
Intermediate Stations and Coastal Stops
The Yesvantpur–Madgaon Vande Bharat Express will serve 12 intermediate stations, making it highly accessible for travelers across the coastal belt. The scheduled stops include:
- Shravanabelagola
- Hassan
- Sakleshpur
- Subrahmanya Road
- Kabakaputtur
- Mangaluru Junction
- Udupi
- Kundapura
- Mookambika Road Byndoor
- Murdeshwar
- Gokarna Road
- Karwar
Enhanced Efficiency via Electrified Ghat Section
One of the most significant technical upgrades highlighted by Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar is the use of the newly electrified 55-km ghat section between Sakleshpur and Subrahmanya Road. This electrification is a major step toward sustainability, as it significantly reduces the railway's reliance on diesel fuel in this sensitive terrain.
"The route provides a direct rail link to a major tourist destination and enhances travel efficiency for residents of Karnataka," stated the Railway Board Chairman during the announcement.
However, passengers should be aware that due to current safety protocols, a speed limit of 30 kmph remains in effect while traversing the challenging ghat section to ensure maximum safety during the transit.