Vande Bharat Bengaluru–Ernakulam service draws 55,000 passengers in first month

Bengaluru–Ernakulam Vande Bharat carried 55K+ passengers in its first month, with bookings exceeding 100% capacity

The newly launched KSR Bengaluru–Ernakulam Vande Bharat Express has witnessed an overwhelming response in its debut month, carrying more than 55,000 passengers since its inauguration on November 11 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This premium semi high-speed train is the first to directly connect Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, offering faster travel and modern amenities. According to figures released by South Western Railways (SWR), Bengaluru Division, bookings have consistently exceeded available capacity in both directions, highlighting its popularity among commuters.

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In November, the Bengaluru–Ernakulam leg recorded 11,447 passengers with an average booking rate of 127%. The numbers rose further in December, with 16,129 passengers and 117% average booking. On the return journey, the Ernakulam–Bengaluru service carried 12,786 passengers in November, with occupancy reaching 141%. December saw 14,742 passengers, with bookings averaging 106%.

Railway officials explained that occupancy is calculated by including waiting list bookings. For instance, if 100 seats are available and 27 passengers are on the waiting list, the occupancy is considered 127%.

SWR anticipates even higher demand in December, driven by Christmas and New Year holidays as well as the annual Sabarimala pilgrimage. The train has quickly become a preferred option for a wide range of travelers—daily commuters, business professionals, students, and tourists—thanks to its speed, comfort, and strategic connectivity across southern states.

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