The semi-high-speed train service has transported more than 5.72 lakh passengers since its launch, reflecting strong demand and growing popularity among travellers
Pic/Special Arrangement
The Kalaburagi–Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express has completed two years of service, marking a significant milestone in enhancing fast and modern rail connectivity between the Kalyana Karnataka region and Bengaluru.
The semi-high-speed train service has transported more than 5.72 lakh passengers since its launch, reflecting strong demand and growing popularity among travellers.
Flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
The Vande Bharat Express service was inaugurated and flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conferencing on March 12, 2024. The train was introduced to improve high-speed connectivity between Bengaluru, Karnataka’s capital and major IT hub, and Kalaburagi, a key city in the Kalyana Karnataka region.
Since its launch, the train has provided faster and more comfortable travel options for business travellers, government officials, students and working professionals commuting between the two regions.
Boost to trade, education and healthcare access
Railway officials said the service has significantly improved connectivity between North Karnataka and Bengaluru, reducing travel time and facilitating smoother movement of people for work, education and healthcare.
The train has also strengthened economic ties by enabling quicker trade links between markets in North Karnataka and the technology hub of Bengaluru. In addition, patients from the region now have quicker access to advanced medical facilities in the state capital.
The improved connectivity has benefited several towns along the route, including Yadgir, Raichur, and nearby areas.
Faster travel with multiple key stoppages
Train numbers 22231/22232 Kalaburagi–SMVT Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express covers a distance of 561 km in about eight hours, compared to 10–12 hours taken by existing superfast trains, saving passengers roughly two to four hours of travel time.
The train currently operates six days a week and halts at major stations including Yadgir, Raichur, Manthralayam Road, Guntakal, Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai Prasanthi Nilayam, and Yelahanka.
Strong passenger demand and high occupancy
The eight-coach Vande Bharat train set offers a total seating capacity of 452 passengers, including 400 Chair Car (CC) seats and 52 Executive Chair Car (EC) seats.
According to railway officials, the train has carried 5,72,566 passengers up to February 2026. In 2026 alone, the service recorded an impressive occupancy rate of 103.52 per cent, indicating sustained passenger demand.
Symbol of modernisation in Indian Railways
Officials said the successful completion of two years of operations highlights Indian Railways’ ongoing efforts toward modernisation, improved passenger comfort, faster travel and sustainable transportation.
The Kalaburagi–SMVT Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express continues to play an important role in strengthening regional connectivity, while contributing to economic growth and improved mobility across Karnataka.
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