Kumaraswamy Urges Centre to Launch Vande Bharat Service from Bengaluru to Goa via Coastal Karnataka
Union Minister calls for high-speed rail connectivity citing public demand and completion of route electrification.
Bengaluru: Union Heavy Industries and Steel Minister H D Kumaraswamy has urged Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to introduce a Vande Bharat Express service connecting Bengaluru with Madgaon in Goa via coastal Karnataka.
In a letter written on Tuesday, Kumaraswamy highlighted the long-standing public demand for faster and better rail connectivity between Bengaluru and the coastal regions of Karnataka and Goa. He noted that the route is now ready for high-speed services following the successful electrification of the ghat section.
Kumaraswamy said the proposed service would significantly improve connectivity along the Bengaluru–Hassan–Mangaluru Junction–Udupi–Karwar corridor, which serves a large and diverse group of passengers, including tourists, pilgrims, students, and working professionals.
He pointed out that launching a Vande Bharat Express on this route would strengthen links between Bengaluru, known as India’s IT capital, and key commercial, port, and tourism hubs along the coast and in Goa. According to him, the new service would reduce travel time while offering greater comfort and reliability to passengers.
The former Karnataka Chief Minister also requested the Railway Minister to direct the South Western Railway to study the feasibility of the proposal and take necessary steps to move it forward.
Kumaraswamy said improved rail connectivity would help meet rising passenger demand, promote regional economic growth, boost tourism, and enhance inter-state travel. He added that the proposal aligns with the Union government’s vision of creating a modern, efficient, and integrated railway network across the country.
Expressing hope for a positive response, Kumaraswamy said he would appreciate early action on the request.
