Minister assures launch “at the earliest” but coach shortages stall operations.
Belagavi | July 26, 2025 — The long-awaited Belagavi-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express remains in limbo, frustrating residents and officials alike. Despite repeated assurances from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, no official launch date has been announced yet.
For more details :https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubballi/belagavi-bengaluru-vande-bharat-railway-min-repeats-assurances-but-no-timeline-yet/articleshow/122910031.cms
Recent Assurances from Railway Minister
During a recent meeting in New Delhi with MPs Iranna Kadadi, Pralhad Joshi, and Karnataka’s Railway Minister V. Somanna, Vaishnaw promised that the train service would start “at the earliest.” However, he did not provide any definite timeline. This lack of clarity has increased public disappointment, as the demand for a fast and reliable connection to Bengaluru grows stronger.
Background and Trial Run Success
The Railways conducted a successful trial run between Dharwad and Belagavi in 2023, showing the route’s readiness. In May 2025, the Railway Ministry officially approved a dedicated Vande Bharat Express for the Belagavi-Bengaluru route. But despite the announcement, the project has seen no significant progress. Officials now say they are waiting for coaches to become available before operations can begin.
MP Kadadi, quoting the Railway Minister, said, “The permission has already been granted. We are only waiting for the availability of coaches. The train will commence operations as soon as they are allocated.”
Other Railway Commitments
Apart from this, Vaishnaw also pledged to convert the Belagavi-Miraj special train into a regular passenger service within a month. Additionally, he promised to personally inspect Ghataprabha railway station after complaints about poor construction work surfaced.
Public Pressure and Future Expectations
Residents and local leaders continue to push the Railway Ministry to accelerate progress. They want clear timelines and faster action on these long-pending projects. The region’s connectivity and economic growth depend heavily on such developments.
The delay has raised concerns about how long infrastructure projects take and whether future commitments will meet deadlines. As of now, Belagavi and neighboring areas wait eagerly for the day the Vande Bharat Express finally connects them with Bengaluru.
Read also : Big Boost: MB Patil Pushes Key Airport Transformation in Karnataka
