The Bengaluru-Mumbai Express commenced its first journey on Sunday, enhancing the link between Karnataka and Maharashtra. This new service aims to facilitate smoother travel for various purposes like business, education, tourism, and employment opportunities. Operated by the South Western Railway (SWR) zone, the train will benefit passengers traveling between Bengaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad, Belagavi, Pune, and Mumbai.
The Bengaluru-Mumbai-Bengaluru Express, with train numbers 16553/16554, covered a distance of 1,210 km in 24 hours and 5 minutes during its inaugural run. Starting regular operations from May 23 in Bengaluru and May 24 in Mumbai, the train will halt at 15 stations including Tumakuru, Davangere, Pune, and Thane. It will run as a bi-weekly service, offering various coach classes to passengers.
Dr. Manjunath Kanamadi, SWR Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), highlighted the significance of this new train service. He mentioned that it will greatly benefit passengers traveling for business, education, tourism, and employment purposes, enhancing connectivity to key commercial and cultural centers along the route. The ticket fare for the journey between SMVT Bengaluru and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus ranges from Rs 750 for Sleeper Class to Rs 2,575 for AC 2 Tier.
The schedule for the SMVT Bengaluru–Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express includes departures from Bengaluru at 8.35 p.m. on Saturdays and Tuesdays, reaching Mumbai at 8.40 p.m. on Sundays and Wednesdays. The return journey from Lokmanya Tilak Terminus to SMVT Bengaluru departs at 11.15 p.m. on Sundays and Wednesdays, arriving in Bengaluru at 10.30 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays. This new service is set to provide a convenient and efficient travel option for passengers between the two major cities.
