Indian Railways will convert the Surat-Mangaluru Junction bi-weekly special train into a regular service starting in June 2024 [1].
This transition is significant for passengers because special trains typically carry higher fares than regular services. By regularizing the route, the railway aims to lower ticket prices and provide more stable connectivity between Gujarat and Karnataka [1].
The service, identified as train number 09057/09058 [2], operates between Surat in Gujarat and Mangaluru Junction in Karnataka [1]. The route travels via the Konkan Railway, providing a critical link across the western coast of India [1].
The Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway and Konkan Railway said the train maintains a bi-weekly frequency, meaning it runs twice a week [1]. This schedule ensures consistent travel options for those commuting between the two hubs.
While the regularization began in June 2024 [1], the periodicity of the service has been extended through March 2026 [2]. This extension ensures that the route remains operational for the foreseeable future, avoiding the temporary nature of special train designations.
The decision to move away from the "special" status removes the premium pricing associated with such trains. This change is intended to make long-distance travel more affordable for the general public, while maintaining the existing frequency of the bi-weekly schedule [1].
“The Surat-Mangaluru Junction bi-weekly special train will be regularised as a regular service.”
The conversion of a 'special' train to a 'regular' service is a strategic move by Indian Railways to balance revenue with passenger affordability. By removing the special-category surcharge, the railway increases the accessibility of the Konkan route, likely in response to steady demand between the industrial hub of Surat and the port city of Mangaluru.
