The Railway Ministry has officially approved the South Western Railway’s proposal to regularise the Vijayapura-Mangaluru Central train service, converting the former ‘special’ status into a permanent express route. This long-awaited decision heralds a significant enhancement in regional connectivity, promising more affordable and predictable travel, thereby fostering sustainable, eco-friendly, gender-neutral, and equitable access to essential services and opportunities across Karnataka’s diverse urban and rural landscapes.
The regularisation of Train No. 07377/07378 (now 17377/17378) as the Vijayapura-Mangaluru Central Express marks a pivotal moment for thousands of daily commuters and travellers. Previously operating as ‘special’ services, these trains often carried enhanced fares, placing an additional financial burden on passengers. With the regularisation, commuters can now expect standard fares, making rail travel more accessible and economically viable, particularly for those from North Karnataka seeking specialised medical care in coastal Mangaluru or students pursuing higher education in the region’s academic hubs.
Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta lauded the Ministry’s approval, highlighting that the fulfillment of this long-pending demand brings considerable relief to a wide cross-section of the populace. This development underscores the vital role of rail networks in bridging geographical distances and ensuring that urban amenities, such as advanced healthcare facilities and educational institutions, are within easier reach for citizens from less developed areas. Such improvements in public transit are fundamental to creating truly equitable cities where opportunities are not limited by geographical barriers.
From a sustainability perspective, the regularisation of this rail service offers substantial environmental benefits. Railways, inherently a more energy-efficient mode of transport compared to road alternatives, contribute significantly to reducing the overall carbon footprint. By providing a reliable and accessible option, this train route is expected to encourage a shift from private vehicular travel, thereby lowering vehicular emissions and contributing to cleaner air quality in the traversed regions. This aligns seamlessly with the national agenda of promoting zero-net carbon and eco-friendly urban mobility solutions.
The train, initially introduced in November 2019 and temporarily suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic, saw its services restored in December 2021, with an extension to Mangaluru Central from April 2024. Its route includes strategic stoppages at numerous towns, connecting key regional centres such as Bagalkot, Gadag, Hubballi, Davangere, Hassan, and Puttur. This extensive network of stops ensures broad regional coverage, facilitating seamless inter-district travel and strengthening economic and social ties across Karnataka. The consistent operational timings (departing Mangaluru Central at 4:45 PM and Vijayapura at 3:00 PM) will further enhance predictability for passengers.
Ultimately, the regularisation of the Vijayapura-Mangaluru Central Express is more than a mere operational change; it is an investment in human dignity and regional prosperity. It fosters a sense of unity and shared opportunity across Karnataka, empowering individuals through improved access to critical services and promoting sustainable travel practices. By strengthening its rail backbone, the state is demonstrating a clear commitment to building connected, equitable, and environmentally conscious communities, ensuring that its development trajectory is both robust and inclusive for all its citizens.
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