Yeshwanthpur–Mangaluru Vande Bharat completes second trial run ahead of schedule

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, September 11, 2026: The second trial run of the 16-coach Vande Bharat Express between Yeshwanthpur and Mangaluru Junction was successfully completed, with the train completing the journey ahead of the scheduled time.

Railway officials and staff from various departments travelled on the train during the trial to assess running time, operational aspects and safety standards along the route.

Officials from the electrical departments, including Traction Distribution (TRD) and Traction Rolling Operations (TRO), along with personnel from the mechanical and engineering departments, participated in the trial run. The train’s performance was assessed at different stretches of the route, including the ghat section.

According to a South Western Railway official, the second trial run was completed ahead of schedule. The first trial run had been delayed due to strong winds in the ghat section and compatibility issues between the overhead equipment and the train’s pantograph.

Sources said another trial run may be conducted if any remaining technical issues need to be addressed.

Meanwhile, Legislative Council member Kishore Kumar Puttur has welcomed the temporary halt provided to the Bengaluru–Mangaluru Vande Bharat Express at Kabaka-Puttur station.

The train did not halt at Kabaka-Puttur during its first full-scale run on September 5. The temporary halt has now been permitted on a trial basis, raising the possibility of making it permanent in the future, Kishore Kumar said.

He also indicated that changes may be made to the train’s timetable if required.

The series of trials being conducted for the operation of the Vande Bharat Express on the Yeshwanthpur–Mangaluru route has raised expectations among passengers in the coastal region.