Service Launch Details
Indian Railways has officially inaugurated a brand-new express train service connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai, marking a significant enhancement in rail
connectivity. The inaugural run commenced on May 17, with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw virtually flagging off the service. This new bi-weekly express is operated and managed by the South Western Railway (SWR) zone. Its introduction is poised to greatly benefit travelers for a multitude of reasons, including business ventures, educational pursuits, tourism, and employment opportunities, thereby fostering better connections between Bengaluru, the important commercial and cultural hubs of North Karnataka, and the bustling metropolis of Mumbai.
Route and Travel Time
Designated as train numbers 16553 and 16554 for regular service, the Bengaluru-Mumbai Express embarked on its inaugural journey as a special one-way service numbered 06557. The train operates between Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru (SMVT Bengaluru) and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus in Mumbai. Covering an extensive distance of 1,210 kilometers, the journey is scheduled to take approximately 24 hours and 5 minutes. Regular passenger services are set to commence from Bengaluru on May 23, with services originating from Mumbai starting on May 24. This efficient route promises to bridge the two major cities with remarkable speed and convenience.
Key Stoppages and Connectivity
The new SMVT Bengaluru-Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express makes strategic stops at 15 stations, ensuring broad connectivity across the route. These stations include Tumakuru, Davangere, SSS Hubballi, Dharwar, Belagavi, Miraj, Sangli, Karad, Satara, Lonand, Pune, Lonavala, Karjat, Kalyan, and Thane. This comprehensive list of halts facilitates easy access for passengers traveling to and from various important commercial, educational, and cultural centers along the path, significantly improving regional rail accessibility.
Coach Composition and Frequency
This new express train operates as a bi-weekly service, offering convenient travel options twice a week. The train is equipped with a total of 17 LHB coaches, designed for comfort and safety. The composition includes one AC 2-Tier coach, four AC 3-Tier coaches, six Sleeper Class coaches, and four General Second Class coaches. Additionally, it features a Second Class Luggage-cum-Brake Van with a compartment specially designed for Divyangjan (differently-abled) passengers, along with a Luggage-cum-Generator Car-cum-Brake Van, ensuring all travel needs are met.
Timings and Schedule
Train number 16553, the SMVT Bengaluru–Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express, departs from SMVT Bengaluru every Saturday and Tuesday at 20:35 hrs, arriving at Lokmanya Tilak Terminus on Sundays and Wednesdays respectively at 20:40 hrs. In the return direction, train number 16554, the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus–SMVT Bengaluru Express, leaves Lokmanya Tilak Terminus at 23:15 hrs on Sundays and Wednesdays, reaching SMVT Bengaluru at 22:30 hrs on Mondays and Thursdays. The inaugural special service on May 17 departed Bengaluru at 10:00 hrs, arriving in Mumbai the following day at 10:30 hrs.
Ticket Fare Details
Travelers can book their tickets for the SMVT Bengaluru and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus route on trains 16553/16554 with fixed fare rates. The ticket price for Sleeper Class is set at Rs 750. For those opting for air-conditioned comfort, the AC 3 Tier fare is Rs 1880, and the AC 2 Tier fare is Rs 2575. These fares are designed to offer competitive pricing for a comfortable and efficient journey between these two major Indian cities.
