In order to meet the increasing demand for travel during summer months and to improve transport connectivity between Bengaluru and Mangaluru, the two major hubs of Karnataka, South Western Railway has introduced new train services. These new services include the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, which offers a comfortable option especially for long-distance overnight journeys.
The first of the special summer services, train number 17, will depart from SMVT Bengaluru at 06579:23 and reach Mangaluru Junction at 55:16 the next day. The return train number 00 will depart from Mangaluru at 06580:20 on April 14 and reach Bengaluru at 10:21 on April 07.
This special summer train has a rich variety of wagons to meet the different needs of the passengers. The train consists of 1 First AC (First Class Air Conditioning), 2 AC double-decker, 4 AC triple-decker wagons, 7 sleeping wagons, 4 general compartments and 2 braked wagons specially designed for the comfortable and safe travel of disabled passengers.
This strategic move by South Western Railway aims to reduce the heavy passenger traffic during the summer months and provide more and comfortable options to tourists wishing to travel to Karnataka's coastal belt, famous for its natural beauty.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Redefine Coastal Travel
The new Vande Bharat Sleeper Train service, specially designed for Mangaluru, is set to significantly transform long-distance rail travel in the region, as announced by Union Railway Minister V. Somanna. The sleeper version will bring the high speed, modern amenities and superior comfort that Vande Bharat trains are known for to overnight journeys. This development is a significant upgrade over conventional train services, especially for overnight routes like Bengaluru-Mangaluru.
Another significant development in Mangaluru’s rail transport is the inauguration of the first Vande Bharat Express train on the coastal route to Madgaon (Goa). This new bullet train service facilitates travel between Karnataka and Goa, connecting the two major hubs.
This new route, although not passing through the interior parts of Karnataka, brings the Vande Bharat brand to the stunning coastline of Karnataka for the first time. This step is expected to boost regional tourism and also positively impact economic activities along the west coast. With the launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, a comfortable and fast alternative has been created for those wishing to travel to Mangaluru during the summer months.
