A DEMU train. Image for representation only
Hosapete: A new weekday DEMU special train connecting Hosapete Junction and Arsikere Junction will commence operations from Aug 28, significantly improving daytime rail connectivity between Vijayanagara and central Karnataka. The unreserved service will run Monday to Friday, departing Hosapete at 6.30am and arriving at Arsikere at 2.20pm via Kotturu, Davanagere, and Kadur. On the return journey, the train will leave Arsikere at 2.30pm and reach Hosapete at 9.30pm.
The new DEMU service is expected to provide a convenient and reliable daytime travel option for regular commuters along the nearly 360-km Hosapete-Arsikere corridor via Kotturu, Davanagere and Kadur. Stay updated with the latest Hubballi news. The train is expected to benefit students, traders and residents of Vijayanagara’s western taluks who frequently travel to Davanagere for education, business, healthcare and other essential services. Passengers from Arsikere will also gain easier access to Mysuru and key destinations such as Hassan, Belur-Halebidu, Shravanabelagola, Dharmasthala, Kukke Subrahmanya, Udupi, and Mangaluru, boosting tourism, pilgrimages, and student travel. The service comes after years of efforts by the Vijayanagara Railway Users Association and the Hagaribommanahalli-Kotturu railway committees under the leadership of Maheshwar Swamiji of Nandipur Mutt, who had been pressing for improved rail connectivity. Association president Y Yamunesh and general secretary Mahesh Kudutini thanked railway minister V Somanna and South Western Railway officials for acceding to the long-pending demand. Download the TOI App.