India, Nov. 12 -- The Vande Bharat Express linking Bengaluru with coastal Karnataka and Goa will be flagged off on November 13, with South Western Railway confirming that the regular service begins on November 15.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is expected to attend the launch in Mangaluru, marking his first visit to the region, and travel on the inaugural run up to Subrahmanya Road. However, reports differed on the flag-off arrangements, with one stating that Vaishnaw would flag off the train from Mangaluru Junction at noon, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi would join virtually. Other reports said the Prime Minister would flag off the service.

Two inaugural specials will run on Friday. Train 06512 leaves SMVT Bengaluru at 1:30 pm ...