Nexus News Alert | Bengaluru, May 18, 2026 — Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday virtually flagged off the new SMVT Bengaluru–Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express, strengthening rail connectivity between Bengaluru and Mumbai. The minister also announced that the much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper service between the two cities is expected to commence soon.
The launch of the New Bengaluru–Mumbai Express marks a significant step in improving travel facilities for passengers from Karnataka and Maharashtra. The train will provide a faster and more comfortable journey between the two major cities.
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Key Highlights of New Bengaluru–Mumbai Express
- Train Number: 16553/16554
- Route: SMVT Bengaluru to Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (Mumbai)
- Flagged Off By: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
- Vande Bharat Sleeper: Expected to start soon
Speaking during the event, Minister Vaishnaw highlighted the rapid expansion of railway infrastructure in Karnataka. He stated that around 1,750 km of new railway lines have been constructed in the state since 2014.
Major Railway Developments in Karnataka
The minister shared several ongoing and completed projects:
| Project | Details |
|---|---|
| Amrit Bharat Station Scheme | 61 stations being redeveloped (₹2,160 crore) |
| Bengaluru Cantonment Station | Redevelopment at ₹485 crore |
| Yesvantpur Junction | Redevelopment at ₹367 crore |
| Hassan–Mangaluru Electrification | Completed, testing underway |
| Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project | Work progressing on all four corridors |
Mr. Vaishnaw also mentioned that Karnataka currently operates 12 pairs of Vande Bharat trains, with testing underway on the Bengaluru–Mangaluru route to improve coastal connectivity.
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Bullet Train Corridors Approved
The minister announced that bullet train corridors connecting Bengaluru with Hyderabad and Chennai have received approval. He said the long-term vision is to expand the high-speed rail network to nearly 7,000 km connecting major cities including Mumbai and Bengaluru.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Maintenance Depot
Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna informed that a Vande Bharat Sleeper maintenance depot will be established at Thanisandra at a cost of ₹270 crore. Additionally, a chair car maintenance facility will be set up at SMVT Bengaluru at ₹52.73 crore.
Significance for Passengers
The New Bengaluru–Mumbai Express will provide better connectivity for business travellers, tourists, and daily commuters between the financial capitals of South and West India. The upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper service is expected to further enhance night travel comfort on this route.
Nexus News Alert will keep you updated with the latest railway developments, new train services, and infrastructure projects across Karnataka and India.
