In a major boost for rail passengers, the South Western Railway (SWR) has announced that it will speed up 123 trains across several routes starting January 2026. According to the public timetable released on Thursday, key routes like Bengaluru-Gandhidham, Bengaluru-Jodhpur, and Bengaluru-Mumbai will see reduced travel times, improving connectivity and convenience for travelers.
Details of the Speed-Up Initiative
The SWR speed-up plan aims to:
Shorten travel duration on long-distance routes
Enhance punctuality and operational efficiency
Provide better connectivity for passengers traveling between major cities
The initiative is part of the railway’s ongoing efforts to modernize its services, catering to growing passenger demand and making train travel more competitive with air travel.
Routes Benefiting the Most
The following routes are expected to see significant improvements in travel time:
Bengaluru–Gandhidham: Key for business and tourist travelers heading to Gujarat
Bengaluru–Jodhpur: Serving passengers traveling to Rajasthan
Bengaluru–Mumbai: A busy corridor connecting the IT hub of Bengaluru with the financial capital
Passengers on these routes can expect shorter journeys, making commuting more convenient and efficient.
Operational and Passenger Benefits
By speeding up trains, SWR aims to:
Increase train frequency and reduce congestion
Improve train turnaround time, allowing more trains to run daily
Enhance passenger satisfaction with faster, more reliable services
Officials have emphasized that the speed-up will be implemented without compromising safety, with necessary checks and infrastructure improvements already underway.
Public Communication and Timetable Updates
SWR has made the updated timetable publicly available, advising passengers to check train timings and schedules before travel. Tickets for affected trains will continue to be available through online portals and booking counters, and passengers are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance.
Conclusion
The acceleration of 123 trains by the South Western Railway from January 2026 is a welcome move for long-distance travelers. With faster travel on key routes like Bengaluru-Gandhidham, Jodhpur, and Mumbai, passengers can look forward to more efficient journeys and improved connectivity across major cities served by SWR.
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