Prime Minister flags off new Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express
Bengaluru:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flagged off the Ernakulam–KSR Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express, marking a major boost to inter-state connectivity between Karnataka and Kerala. The service was launched virtually as part of the flag-off of four new Vande Bharat trains across the country.
At a reception ceremony held at KSR Bengaluru Railway Station, Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries H. D. Kumaraswamy said the new train will offer faster and more comfortable travel between the two states, benefiting both business and leisure travellers.
“This service will greatly benefit passengers from both Karnataka and Kerala by offering world-class travel standards and enhanced comfort,” Kumaraswamy said, noting that this is the ninth Vande Bharat train under the Bengaluru Division and the twelfth in Karnataka.
The train, designed and manufactured entirely in India, is expected to reduce travel time between Bengaluru and Ernakulam and strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two southern states.
Bengaluru Central MP P. C. Mohan, who also attended the event, said the introduction of the new Vande Bharat reflects India’s growing self-reliance in high-speed rail technology. “It will improve connectivity, enhance convenience, and promote trade opportunities between the two regions,” he added.
The ceremony also featured a felicitation of school students who won competitions on the theme ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’, along with traditional Kamsale and cultural performances.
Divisional Railway Manager Ashutosh Kumar Singh, senior railway officials, and public representatives were present on the occasion.