Mangaluru: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vande Bharat Express train virtually, connecting Mangaluru and Madgaon through a video conference on Saturday.

During the event at Mangaluru Central Railway Station, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel stressed the significance of such specialized trains, highlighting their crucial role in enhancing interstate connectivity. He expressed optimism about the swift completion of the electrification of routes from Mangaluru to Bengaluru, emphasizing its positive impact on the convenience of the people. Kumar announced that the Vande Bharat train service to Bengaluru is scheduled to commence in April.

The inaugural run of the express train was welcomed with grand receptions at Udupi, Karwar, and Madgaon Junction.

The Vande Bharat Express, departing from Mangaluru Central at 8.30 am, will follow a timetable, reaching Madgaon at 1.15 pm. Key stops along the route include Udupi at 9.48 am, Karwar at 12.08 pm, and Madgaon Junction at 4.40 pm during the inaugural run.

On its return journey, the express train will depart from Madgaon at 6.10 pm, arriving at Mangaluru Central at 10.45 pm, with stops at Udupi at 9.12 pm and Karwar at 6.55 pm. Notably, the Vande Bharat Express will not operate on Thursdays.