Indian Railways has launched a new direct express train service between Bengaluru and Mumbai, marking the introduction of a second direct rail connection between the two cities after nearly three decades.
The new SMVT Bengaluru–Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express was virtually inaugurated by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on May 17. The service is expected to improve connectivity for passengers travelling between Bengaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad, Belagavi, Pune, and Mumbai.
Train Route And Travel Time
The new Bengaluru-Mumbai Express will operate between Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) Bengaluru and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) Mumbai.
The train will cover a total distance of approximately 1,210 kilometres in 24 hours and 5 minutes. Regular operations from Bengaluru are scheduled to begin from May 23, while services from Mumbai will start from May 24.
Key Stoppages On Route
The train will halt at 15 stations during its journey. Major stoppages include Tumakuru, Davangere, Hubballi, Dharwad, Belagavi, Miraj, Sangli, Karad, Satara, Pune, Lonavala, Karjat, Kalyan, and Thane.
Railway officials said the route is expected to benefit passengers travelling for business, tourism, education, and employment purposes across Karnataka and Maharashtra.
Train Schedule Details
Train number 16553 SMVT Bengaluru–Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express will depart from Bengaluru at 8:35 PM every Tuesday and Saturday and reach Mumbai at 8:40 PM the following day.
In the return direction, Train number 16554 Lokmanya Tilak Terminus–SMVT Bengaluru Express will leave Mumbai at 11:15 PM every Sunday and Wednesday and arrive in Bengaluru at 10:30 PM the next day.
Coach Composition And Fare
The train includes AC First Class, AC 2-tier, AC 3-tier, Sleeper Class, and General coaches.
Reports said ticket prices are expected to vary depending on coach category and demand. Railway booking platforms have started accepting reservations for the new service.
Demand For Better Bengaluru-Mumbai Connectivity
For several years, the Udyan Express remained the primary direct train service between Bengaluru and Mumbai. Passenger groups and commuters had repeatedly demanded additional direct train connectivity because of increasing travel demand between the two major cities.
Railway officials stated that the new bi-weekly express service is aimed at easing passenger pressure and improving travel options on the busy Bengaluru-Mumbai route.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Service Also Planned
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also indicated that a Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper train service could begin in the near future as Indian Railways continues expanding high-speed and premium rail connectivity across the country.
