A new Vande Bharat Express linking Shivamogga Town with Tirupati via Bengaluru could soon improve rail connectivity between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, following a positive response from the Railway Board to a proposal raised by Tirupati MP Maddila Gurumoorthy. Want to know how this will boost connectivity? Read on!
Vande Bharat Service Linking Shivamogga Town To Tirupati Approved
According to the MP, the Railway Board has responded favourably to his request for introducing a Vande Bharat service on the Shivamogga Town-Tirupati route via Bengaluru. An official proposal for the train has apparently been prepared and included in an action plan drawn up by South Western Railway after the MP raised the issue of strengthening rail connectivity from Tirupati.
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The proposed service is expected to create a faster and more convenient rail link between Shivamogga, Bengaluru and Tirupati. While Shivamogga is an important commercial and educational centre in central Karnataka, Tirupati is one of the country’s major pilgrimage destinations and attracts visitors from across India throughout the year.
Proposed Vande Bharat Could Boost Connectivity
According to a report by Deccan Chronicle, the introduction of a Vande Bharat Express on this corridor could benefit passengers travelling between the three cities for a range of purposes. Pilgrims travelling to Tirupati could get a more convenient travel option, while students, professionals and patients travelling between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh could also benefit from improved connectivity.
Bengaluru’s position as a significant transport and employment hub could further increase the usefulness of the proposed service. A direct train passing through Bengaluru would provide passengers from Shivamogga and surrounding areas with better access to the city while also creating a faster connection towards Tirupati.
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The proposal comes amid continued efforts by railway authorities to expand semi-high-speed Vande Bharat connectivity across different parts of the country. These trains are designed to offer faster journeys, modern passenger amenities and improved onboard comfort compared with conventional express services.
Good news for Tirupati, Bengaluru and Shivamogga Town travellers.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
FAQs
Does Shimoga have Vande Bharat Express?
No, Shimoga (Shivamogga) does not currently have an active Vande Bharat Express, though a route connecting it to Bengaluru has been announced and proposed.
Is Vande Bharat available for Tirupati?
Yes, the Vande Bharat Express service is available for Tirupati.
Are there any direct trains from Shimoga to Tirupati?
No, there are no direct trains running between Shimoga (Shivamogga) and Tirupati.