The original proposal for the present KCG-MAQ express was to run a train via BAY,UBL,Londa, Madgaon, Karwar. This was rejected by SWR citing ghat constraints.
Following this SCR proposed to the run the train via BAY, Chikjajur, Hassan, Sakleshpur and the Shiradi ghat route. This was also rejected by SWR due to ghat constraints.
It was introduced in it's current route - via KPD,JTJ - after both rejections as SR agreed to provide a slot for the running the train via the longer route.