Vizag’s Long Wait for Direct Bengaluru Train Continues
Visakhapatnam’s demand for an originating direct train to Bengaluru remains unmet, nearly two decades after the Prasanthi Express was extended to Bhubaneswar. The move had triggered strong protests across the Vizag region, but passengers say their concerns were overlooked. Despite repeated assurances from successive Railway Ministers, no new service has materialised.
Commuters point to a clear contrast. Smaller cities such as Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur, Kakinada, and Machilipatnam operate originating trains to Bengaluru. Visakhapatnam, the largest city in Andhra Pradesh and a major commercial hub, still lacks one.
The recent announcement of three new express trains to Bengaluru has added to the disappointment. None will halt at Visakhapatnam Junction. Instead, they will pass through Duvvada, Pendurti, and Kottavalasa. Rail users argue that this bypasses one of the busiest stations on the East Coast.
Passengers say the problem is now spilling over into air travel. With airfares to Bengaluru rising sharply during peak seasons, many travellers prefer trains as a more affordable alternative. However, the absence of a direct originating service has left them with limited options.
“Flight tickets often rise beyond the reach of middle-class families,” said S. Madhavi, a frequent traveller. “People naturally turn to trains, but without a direct service from Vizag, even that option becomes difficult.”
Rail users say the strain is affecting air passengers as well. “When train seats are unavailable, more people are forced to fly,” said R. Prakash. “This increases demand for flights and indirectly pushes up airfares.”
Frequent traveller N. Keerthi shared a similar concern. “Bengaluru is vital for jobs, education, and healthcare. A daily direct train would bring stability to travel costs and reduce last-minute disruptions.”
Passenger groups have renewed their appeal, urging the railways to introduce a dedicated Visakhapatnam–Bengaluru originating express with convenient timings.