Malayali loco pilots steer Ernakulam to Bengaluru Vande Bharat in grand launch

Kochi: The first Vande Bharat Express from Ernakulam to Bengaluru commenced service on Saturday, fulfilling a long-standing dream of Malayalis living in Bengaluru.

It is estimated that around 70,000 people from Kochi live in Bengaluru for work or study. For years, they have faced difficulties securing tickets during major festivals such as Onam, Vishu, Christmas, and Eid, with private operators often accused of charging exorbitant fares.

The new service is being seen as a major relief for regular travellers between the two cities and as part of broader efforts to improve connectivity in southern India. With this launch, the Southern Railway zone now operates 12 Vande Bharat trains.

Unni and Satheesh at the controls

The inaugural Ernakulam Junction–Bengaluru Vande Bharat was piloted by AN Unni and C Satheesh, both experienced loco pilots (Express), with Gibi George serving as assistant loco pilot.

Unni, a native of Kandanad, Tripunithura, and Satheesh, from Ernakulam, had also handled the train’s trial run. Both have been driving Vande Bharat services for the past two years. After completing their scheduled duty at Erode Junction, another team of pilots took over, as Vande Bharat pilots typically drive up to 300 kilometres per shift.

Festive start

The inauguration was marked by cultural performances, including Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. Students and teachers from Kendriya Vidyalaya, Amrita Vidyalaya, and Saraswathi Vidyaniketan joined the first journey.

Several YouTubers from Chennai, Delhi, and Bengaluru were also on board, documenting the train’s maiden run to showcase the experience of the new high-speed service.