Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Karnataka’s first Vande Bharat Express and the Yellow Line of Namma Metro on Sunday. The twin inaugurations mark a big step forward in the state’s transport network.
The new Vande Bharat Express will run between Bengaluru and Belagavi, offering faster travel and modern amenities. PM Modi also flagged off two other Vande Bharat trains — Amritsar to Katra and Nagpur to Pune. The Nagpur–Pune service is now the longest Vande Bharat route in India.
Boost to Infrastructure and Economy
Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for metro projects worth ₹22,800 crore in Bengaluru. He said these projects would cut travel time, improve connectivity, and give the economy a strong push.
Since 2014, India’s metro network has grown from 5 cities to 24 cities, making it the third largest in the world. The Prime Minister stressed that reforms, performance, and transformation will shape the journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
Highlighting India’s Defence Strength
This was PM Modi’s first Bengaluru visit since Operation Sindoor. He praised the armed forces for destroying terrorist hideouts across the border. The swift success, he said, showed the power of technology and Make in India defence capabilities.
Regional Leaders Welcome the Move
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis thanked the Centre for starting the Nagpur–Pune Vande Bharat service. It addresses the demand for affordable, faster travel on a busy route.
In Jammu and Kashmir, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha welcomed the Amritsar–Katra Vande Bharat. He said it would make pilgrimages to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi easier and support local businesses.
