Indian Railways is set to transform travel between mumbai and Mangaluru by extending the Mumbai-Goa Vande Bharat Express to Mangaluru. This ambitious move aims to cut the journey time to just 12 hours, significantly improving connectivity along the western coastal belt. However, the decision raises questions about feasibility and demand, especially considering the current railway usage patterns in karnataka and Kerala.

The Demand Conundrum: Is Coastal karnataka Ready?

Unlike Kerala, where trains are an essential lifeline for daily commuters, the Mangaluru-Karwar railway stretch sees limited use by locals. The primary users of Mumbai-bound trains in this region are blue-collar workers, who may not find the premium Vande Bharat services appealing due to cost constraints. Given this scenario, the practicality of extending the high-speed service into coastal karnataka remains uncertain.

Some experts argue that instead of deploying a Vande Bharat train in this region, the focus should be on a more pressing need: a Bengaluru-Ernakulam Vande Bharat service. Bengaluru and ernakulam are major commercial hubs with significant passenger demand, making them a more viable route for the high-speed train.

The Route Debate: Finding the Fastest Path

To achieve the ambitious 12-hour travel time between mumbai and Mangaluru, careful route planning is essential. The biggest concern is that adding commercial stops at Davangere, Hubballi, and Belagavi would increase travel time significantly, defeating the purpose of a high-speed service.

Rail enthusiasts and travelers suggest an optimal route:

  • Mumbai

  • Pune

  • Ankola

  • Kumta

  • Honnavara

  • Bhatkal

  • Kundapura

  • Udupi

  • Karkala

  • Moodbidri

  • Mangaluru

This streamlined route would ensure a faster journey while maintaining key connectivity points for passengers traveling along the coastline.

Occupancy Challenges and Operational Feasibility

The current Mumbai-Goa Vande Bharat operates at around 70% occupancy. The indian Railways hopes that extending the service to Mangaluru will push occupancy rates closer to 100%. However, for this strategy to succeed, a well-structured schedule and pricing model will be necessary to attract a wider range of passengers.

Will the Mumbai-Mangaluru Vande Bharat Express revolutionize travel in coastal karnataka, or will it struggle due to lack of demand? The coming months will reveal whether this high-speed extension is a game-changer or an ambitious misstep by indian Railways.

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Sindujaa D N

24/03/2025 11:55 AM