Daijiworld Media Network – Belagavi

Belagavi, May 4: In a major boost to rail connectivity in North Karnataka, the Bengaluru–Dharwad Vande Bharat Express will soon be extended to Belagavi, according to an announcement by Belagavi MP Jagadish Shettar. The decision has been approved by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, he said in a press release.

The extended service will see the train departing from Belagavi in the morning, enhancing travel convenience for commuters and professionals travelling to the state capital. The train currently departs from Dharwad at 1:15 pm and arrives in Bengaluru at 7:45 pm.

Shettar noted that this move comes after persistent demands from various leaders, including union minister Pralhad Joshi, minister of state for railways V Somanna, and Rajya Sabha MP Iranna Kadadi, who have long advocated for the extension.

Belagavi is already served by another Vande Bharat train operating between Pune and Hubballi. The new extension is expected to significantly improve connectivity and boost economic activity in the region.