Train services resume on Bengaluru-Mangaluru line after landslide disruption

Train services resume on Bengaluru-Mangaluru line after landslide disruption

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, August 8, 2024: The South Western Railway (SWR) has successfully resumed passenger train services on the Bengaluru-Mangaluru sector, after a 13-day disruption caused by landslides in the Sakleshpur-Subramanya section. The first passenger train to navigate the newly cleared tracks was Train No. 16575, the Yeshwantpur-Mangaluru Junction Gomateshwara tri-weekly Express, which journeyed through the restored stretch on Thursday.

The landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, occurred on July 26, leading to significant debris accumulation on the tracks near a bridge in the Yadakumari-Kadagaravalli sector. This prompted the Mysuru Division of SWR to suspend train operations and initiate a challenging restoration process.

Restoration Efforts
Railway officials reported that clearing the debris and repairing the track posed significant challenges. The restoration efforts were hampered by the inaccessibility of the affected area and ongoing heavy rains. Despite these obstacles, dedicated teams worked around the clock to complete the task within ten days.

By August 4, the tracks were deemed ’fit’ for operations following a successful engine rolling test. A fully loaded goods train traversed the section on August 6, further confirming the safety and integrity of the track.

Service Resumption
With the restoration complete, SWR announced that overnight trains from Bengaluru and Vijayapura would resume shortly, with return services from Mangaluru, Karwar, and Mangaluru Junction set to start on Friday. However, trains on the affected stretch between Yadakumari and Kadagaravalli will operate at reduced speeds of 15 kmph until further notice to ensure passenger safety.

The first passenger service to pass through the restored section was met with cheers from the workforce present at the site, who celebrated the successful completion of the challenging restoration work.

This resumption of services marks a significant step in restoring normalcy to the region’s rail operations and provides relief to commuters who rely on this crucial transportation link between Bengaluru and Mangaluru.

For more updates on train schedules and operations, passengers are advised to check the official SWR website or contact their local railway stations.