Bengaluru to Mumbai in 18 Hours? Indian Railways’ Duronto Express Could Make It Reality

The Indian Railways is reportedly planning to introduce a Duronto Express connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai, potentially cutting travel time to around 18 hours, sources say. The proposal comes weeks after the Railway Board approved a bi-weekly superfast service between the two cities, covering the 1,209-kilometre route in about 24 hours. The new service drew criticism for being slower than the existing Udyan Express.

Bi-Weekly Superfast Service: Current Plans

The newly notified superfast train, numbered 16553/16554 SMVT Bengaluru-LTT Mumbai-SMVT Bengaluru, was announced on 9 December 2025.

• Train 16553 departs SMVT Bengaluru at 8:35 pm on Saturdays and Tuesdays, reaching LTT Mumbai at 8:40 pm the following day.
• Train 16554 leaves LTT Mumbai at 11:15 pm on Sundays and Wednesdays, arriving in Bengaluru at 10:30 pm.

The service includes 14 stops, including Hubballi and Pune, and runs with 17 LHB coaches, with primary maintenance at SMVT Bengaluru.

Despite the announcement, the lengthy travel time prompted calls for a faster, more convenient option for passengers.

Proposed Duronto Express: Faster Travel

According to reports, the Railway Board is considering a Duronto Express between KSR Bengaluru and CSMT Mumbai, via:

• Tumakuru
• Davangere
• Hubballi
• Belagavi
• Miraj
• Pune

Two rakes are proposed, with primary maintenance at KSR Bengaluru.

Tentative schedule:

• Bengaluru to Mumbai: Depart KSR Bengaluru at 4:30 pm, arrive CSMT Mumbai at 10:30 am next day
• Mumbai to Bengaluru: Depart CSMT Mumbai at 3:00 pm, arrive KSR Bengaluru at 9:30 am

Duronto Express trains are known for:

• Limited stops
• Onboard meals included in the fare
• Dynamic pricing
• A 3AC berth between Bengaluru and Mumbai is estimated at ₹2,500, providing a comfortable and convenient travel option.

Official Statement and Public Opinion

Despite media reports, Ashutosh Kumar Singh, Divisional Railway Manager, Bengaluru, confirmed to Deccan Herald that there has been no official communication regarding the Duronto Express. He also clarified that the bi-weekly superfast service has not been cancelled and could still be launched.

Railway and commuter representatives emphasised the need for a truly superfast service:

Prakash Mandoth, former member of the Zonal Railway Users' Consultative Committee, said a train covering the Bengaluru-Mumbai route in under 18 hours is long overdue.

K N Krishna Prasad, Karnataka Railway Vedike, urged for faster and affordable travel options between the two cities.

What This Means for Passengers

If introduced, the Duronto Express would:

Significantly reduce travel time between Bengaluru and Mumbai

Offer onboard meals and comfort

Provide a premium yet affordable travel option

Cater to business and leisure travellers seeking speed and convenience

The service is expected to become a popular choice on one of India's busiest intercity routes, combining efficiency with passenger comfort.