Vande Bharat Express to connect Bengaluru and Belagavi soon

The Vande Bharat Express is set to extend its route to Belagavi, bringing a much-awaited high-speed rail service to commuters between Kittur Karnataka region and the State capital.

The Vande Bharat Express is set to extend its route to Belagavi, bringing a much-awaited high-speed rail service to commuters between Kittur Karnataka region and the State capital.

The extension has received official approval, and operations are expected to begin shortly, offering a faster and more convenient travel option to passengers.

Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti V. Somanna confirmed that the Railway Ministry has cleared the proposal to run the semi-high-speed train from Belagavi. The green signal came from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw following a formal request submitted earlier this year.

In March 2025, a delegation led by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, including Jagadish Shettar, MP, and Iranna Kadadi, Rajya Sabha member, met Mr. Vaishnaw in New Delhi to press for the early extension of the service.

They submitted a list of demands, with the inclusion of Belagavi on the Vande Bharat route being a top priority.

Currently, the Vande Bharat Express operates between Bengaluru and Hubballi via Dharwad. With the approved extension, the train will start its journey from Belagavi in the morning, although the exact date of commencement is yet to be announced.

Officials have described this move as the fulfilment of a long-pending public demand. “The extension to Belagavi will not only reduce travel time but also improve comfort and connectivity across major districts in Karnataka,” Mr. Somanna said.