Mangalore Junction Railway Station in need of immediate attention

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, June 15, 2014: As many as 24 trains pass through Mangalore junction earlier named ’Kankanady’ is a vital rail Junction of Mangalore. More than 20 trains and more goods trains stop/pass here connecting Bangalore, Chennai, Kerala and North India. However, it is shocking to note that this rail Junction is not provided with even basic  public and passenger amenities. While far less important stations  between  Kasargod and Palakkad are luxurious with few passengers using them.

The distance from Mangalore Junction to the city center is about 10 km,  regular transport services to commute this distance simply does not exist. Autorickshaws charge passengers exorbitant fares and those who are unfamiliar are often ripped off - a prepaid counter is must and an immediate need, no matter that autos come and go by whims.  "We charge Rs 150 to the city, which is same as the prepaid fare. Some drivers from the city do charge more,’’ was the version of automen. Proper shuttle KSRTC bus service to and from town/ Mangalore Central, will be the right solution.

Regular knowledgeable passengers point the immediate need for  retiring rooms,  cloakroom, toilets, safer  a waiting rooms, a good food outlet...and many such essentials normally expected in a railway station.

The station serves a high number of trains and passengers at night - the very primitive canteens are closed at this time? Modern  normal amenities like touch-screen kiosks for passengers check the status of train and ticket, are absent. "The station had three such kiosks last year, and they were carted away for repair. They haven’t returned yet,’’ said Rajesh Kunder, honorary president of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike. He said the station doesn’t have an ATM. There is a need for developing the approach roads in a better manner.