According to a report by The Hindu dated August 14, 2026, the Bengaluru-Ernakulam Vande Bharat Express has been permanently augmented from 8 coaches to 16 coaches. This enhancement significantly increases the seating capacity on this popular route, providing more accommodation for passengers traveling between Karnataka and Kerala.
The decision to augment the train was made by the Railway Board, and the additional coaches have been integrated into the regular service. The train, which operates daily, now offers a total of 1,128 seats, up from the previous 564 seats, according to railway officials.
The augmentation is expected to ease the demand for tickets on this route, which has seen high occupancy rates since its inauguration. The Vande Bharat Express, known for its modern amenities and faster travel times, has been a preferred choice for travelers between the two southern Indian states.
Passengers have welcomed the move, as it reduces the need to book tickets well in advance. The increased capacity is also seen as a boost for tourism and business travel between Bengaluru, a major IT hub, and Ernakulam, a commercial center in Kerala.
