Schedule Overhaul Ahead
South Western Railway has announced significant updates to the operational timings of several Vande Bharat Express trains, with the new schedules officially
commencing on March 15, 2026. This strategic revision impacts key routes that traverse Karnataka and extend into adjacent states, including the much-utilized Hubballi-Pune and Bengaluru-Dharwad corridors. The primary objective behind these adjustments is to streamline train operations, cater more effectively to passenger demand, particularly as the festive season approaches, and ultimately, to foster improved and more reliable connectivity for all travellers. Railway authorities are emphasizing the importance of passengers cross-referencing their travel plans with the updated timetable to preempt any potential disruptions or inconveniences, ensuring a more predictable and pleasant journey across the region.
Hubballi-Pune Route Updates
The Hubballi-Pune Vande Bharat Express, specifically train number 20669, is undergoing minor adjustments to its schedule at various stops. Notably, its arrival at Belagavi will now be at 7:05 am, with the departure scheduled for 7:10 am. Furthermore, a temporary halt has been introduced at Ghataprabha station, a move designed to greatly benefit commuters from the Belagavi district and its surrounding areas who depend on the Vande Bharat service for expedited travel. This new stop will see the train reaching Ghataprabha at 7:48 am and departing at 7:50 am. These modifications aim to optimize the train's performance and passenger accessibility on this vital route.
Bengaluru-Dharwad Dynamics
The Vande Bharat Express operating between KSR Bengaluru and Dharwad is also part of this comprehensive schedule revision. For train 20661 heading towards Dharwad, passengers can expect its arrival at Davanagere at 9:30 am and at Haveri by 10:20 am, reaching Hubballi at 11:15 am. On the return journey, train 20662 from Dharwad to Bengaluru will now arrive at Haveri at 02:48 PM, followed by Davanagere at 3:33 pm. The train is scheduled to reach Yeshwantpur at 7:21 pm, with its departure immediately following at 7:23 pm. These changes are anticipated to enhance inter-city travel efficiency and better integrate services.
Belagavi-Bengaluru Enhancements
The Belagavi-KSR Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express, identified as train 26751, will also be operating under the newly revised timetable, offering improved timings at several key stations. Under the updated schedule, its arrival at Haveri is slated for 8:42 am, and at Davanagere by 9:28 am. Commuters heading towards Bengaluru will see the train arrive at Tumakuru at 12:15 pm, and finally reach Yeshwantpur at 1:23 pm. These refinements are expected to provide more convenient travel windows for individuals commuting between the northern districts of Karnataka and the state capital, Bengaluru.
Yeshwantpur-Kacheguda Adjustments
Significant updates have also been rolled out for the Yeshwantpur-Kacheguda Vande Bharat Express. For train 20704, which departs from Yeshwantpur and heads towards Kacheguda, its arrival at Hindupur will now be at 3:55 pm. In the reverse direction, train 20703, traveling from Kacheguda back to Yeshwantpur, is scheduled to arrive at Hindupur at 12:17 pm. These timing modifications are designed to improve the overall coordination and synchronicity of train movements along this inter-state route.
Kalaburagi-Bengaluru Revisions
Passengers utilizing the Kalaburagi to Bengaluru (SMVT) Vande Bharat Express will also need to note the revised station timings. For train 22231, en route to Bengaluru, its arrival at Sri Sathya Sai Prashanti Nilayam will be at 11:13 am, with an arrival at Yelahanka set for 12:58 pm. On the return leg, train 22232 from Bengaluru to Kalaburagi will arrive at Yelahanka at 3:09 pm and subsequently reach Sri Sathya Sai Prashanti Nilayam at 4:45 pm. These changes aim to enhance the efficiency of this service connecting Kalaburagi with the state capital.
Coimbatore-Bengaluru Updates
The Coimbatore-Bengaluru Cantonment Vande Bharat Express, designated as train 20642, is also subject to a revised timetable. Travelers on this route should be aware that the train's arrival at Hosur station is now scheduled for 12:13 pm, and its departure from Hosur will be at 12:15 pm. This specific adjustment ensures better operational flow for this inter-state connection, facilitating smoother transit for passengers traveling between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
