New Bengaluru-Mumbai Superfast Train To Reduce Travel Time By 18 Hours

Travelling from Bengaluru to Mumbai can often feel like an endurance test. Despite being two of India's most important metro cities, the distance between them - across the country's southwestern stretch - makes the journey long and tiring. Flights are not always affordable, especially when booked at the last minute. However, the Indian Railways is now set to make travel between the two cities faster and more comfortable with the introduction of a new Bengaluru-Mumbai superfast train.

The initiative aims to reduce travel time by approximately 18 hours, marking a major step in improving connectivity between the two business hubs.

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How The Superfast Train Will Change Travel Between Bengaluru And Mumbai?

Until now, the Udyan Express has been the only direct train linking Bengaluru and Mumbai. Covering a distance of about 1,136 kilometres, it takes nearly 23 hours and 35 minutes to complete the journey. The route passes through Doddaballapur, Guntakal, Raichur, Yadgir, Kalaburagi, and Solapur, making 32 stops in one direction and 31 on the return trip.

The upcoming superfast train via Hubballi will provide a faster and more efficient alternative, significantly cutting travel time. According to reports, the service promises better comfort, improved connectivity, and a smoother experience for passengers, particularly those travelling for business or tourism.

The Bengaluru-Mumbai Superfast Train Route:

The new train will begin its journey from Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) in Bengaluru and conclude at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai. Along the way, it will stop at key stations such as Tumakuru, Davangere, Haveri, Hubballi-Dharwad, and Belagavi.

By travelling through central Karnataka for about 600 kilometres, the route has been designed to minimise halts and ensure faster travel between the two metros. The decision to restrict the number of stops was taken to reduce travel time while maintaining passenger convenience.

However, officials have clarified that the final list of stations will only be confirmed once the Railway Board issues an official notification. 

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Why The Superfast Train Is Being Introduced?

According to Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, the decision to introduce the new train follows a long-standing demand from passengers across Karnataka and Maharashtra.

"There has been a long-standing demand to introduce another train through central Karnataka, linking Tumakuru, Davanagere, Haveri, Hubballi-Dharwad, and Belagavi to improve access to Mumbai," he stated.

The new train is expected to boost regional connectivity, promote tourism, and support economic ties between southern and western India. It also offers a much-needed travel option for passengers who rely on railways for long-distance journeys.

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A Game Changer For Karnataka-Maharashtra Rail Travel:

Once operational, the Bengaluru-Mumbai superfast train via Hubballi could become a preferred choice for both regular commuters and tourists. With shorter travel time, better comfort, and fewer stops, it promises a more efficient and passenger-friendly experience.

This move is part of the Indian Railways' larger effort to modernise its services and improve travel times between major Indian cities. The new corridor through central Karnataka will not only ease congestion on the existing Solapur route but also improve access to cities like Hubballi and Belagavi, which are emerging commercial hubs.

While the launch date and train schedule are yet to be officially announced, anticipation among travellers is high. For many, the superfast train represents not just convenience but also a more sustainable and affordable travel option compared to flights.