The Matsyagandha Express, which connects Mangaluru Central in Karnataka with Lokmanya Tilak Terminus in Mumbai, will lose its superfast status from January 6, 2027. Indian Railways will reclassify the service as a regular Mail/Express train, bringing down ticket fares through the removal of the superfast surcharge.
Following the reclassification, the train will operate under new numbers 16369 and 16370, replacing its existing numbers 12619 and 12620. The change is part of the Railways’ broader exercise to review train classifications based on operational performance and average speed.
Passengers to Save on Ticket Fares
With the removal of the superfast surcharge, passengers are expected to save between ₹15 and ₹45 per ticket, depending on the class of travel.
The reported savings are:
- General Second Class: ₹15
- Sleeper Class: ₹30
- AC classes: ₹45
The revised fare structure will apply from the date the new train numbers and classification come into effect.
Why Is the Train Losing Its Superfast Status?
Under Railway Board norms, a train must maintain an average speed of at least 55 kmph to qualify for superfast classification. The Matsyagandha Express has reportedly been unable to meet this benchmark consistently.
The Mumbai–Mangaluru journey averages around 53 kmph, while the return journey averages approximately 54 kmph. The reclassification is intended to align the train’s category with its operational speed.
The change concerns the train’s classification and numbering. Passengers should check the revised details before booking journeys from January 6, 2027.
