Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually flag off the extended Vande Bharat Express on Sunday. Earlier, this high-speed train ran between Dharwad and Bengaluru. Now, it will start from Belagavi, a move aimed at improving travel for people in North Karnataka.

New Route Brings More Connectivity

With this extension, the train will now cover more cities across Karnataka. It will help people travel faster and more easily between key regions of the state.

The train will depart from Belagavi at 5:20 a.m. and reach Bengaluru by 1:50 p.m. After a short halt, it will leave Bengaluru at 2:20 p.m. and arrive back in Belagavi by 10:40 p.m.

Key Cities Along the Route

This extended route will benefit passengers in several major cities such as Tumakuru, Davangere, Haveri, Hubballi, Dharwad, and Belagavi. It is expected to offer a better and faster rail option for both daily commuters and long-distance travelers.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the extended train service will “increase the connection between many parts of Karnataka and make the journey smoother for daily and long-distance travelers.”

Leaders Appreciate PM Modi's Support

Several leaders expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for approving the extension. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, along with MPs Jagadish Shettar and Eeranna Kadadi, thanked him for the decision. They mentioned that they had sent formal requests to extend the train route to Belagavi.

Mr. Shettar shared, “I have been following it up since I became MP. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw gave in-principle for the train a few months ago. However, the movement was delayed as coaches were not ready. In my meeting with the Prime Minister, I requested for the train service. He assured me he will instruct the Minister and officials concerned. Officers have now confirmed the run of the extended service.”

Likely to Run Six Days a Week

Although the final timetable has not been officially announced, reports suggest the train will likely run six days a week. This move is a major step in improving Karnataka’s railway network.

Boost for North Karnataka Travelers

This new service is especially important for North Karnataka, where people had been waiting for better and faster connectivity to Bengaluru. With the extension, Vande Bharat will help bridge the gap between northern and southern parts of the state, making travel more efficient and comfortable.