Udupi: The Indrali railway station in Udupi district is likely to be renamed as ‘Udupi Sri Krishna Railway Station’, following a formal proposal submitted by Udupi–Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary to the Ministry of Railways.
The MP’s request emphasises the cultural and spiritual significance of Udupi, which is globally recognised for the historic Sri Krishna Math. In response to the proposal, the railway board has sought a detailed feasibility report from the chairman and managing director of Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL).
Cultural and spiritual context
According to Poojary, renaming the station after Lord Sri Krishna would not only reflect the district’s deep-rooted traditions but also strengthen Udupi’s global identity as a spiritual and cultural hub.
For decades, devotees from across India and abroad have travelled to Udupi primarily to visit the famous temple town. Local residents and cultural bodies have long voiced the demand for renaming Indrali station to directly reflect this heritage.
Public demand and political support
The demand gained traction during several public meetings where residents insisted that railway infrastructure should mirror Udupi’s spiritual prominence.
Poojary, along with Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, had earlier visited Indrali station in response to citizens’ appeals for better amenities. Their intervention led to the introduction of several improvements, while a few pending requirements are still being examined by the authorities.
The renaming proposal is now being seen as part of this broader push to align the station’s identity with local aspirations.
Significance of Indrali station
Located close to the Udupi city administrative headquarters, Indrali is among the most prominent railway stations in the district. It caters to thousands of passengers daily, including local commuters, tourists, and pilgrims.
Railway officials note that renaming prominent stations requires extensive procedural checks, including clearances from the state government, home ministry, and language committees, in addition to the railway board’s approval.
If the proposal is cleared, the station boards, official timetables, announcements, and reservation systems will reflect the new name, ensuring that passengers travelling to Udupi for religious purposes can more easily identify the destination.
Boost to tourism and recognition
Tourism and hospitality stakeholders in Udupi have welcomed the move, arguing that the new name would serve as a clear landmark for pilgrims and tourists.
“Currently, many first-time visitors are confused when they hear Indrali instead of Udupi. Renaming it as Udupi Sri Krishna Railway Station will remove that confusion and immediately connect the location to the Sri Krishna temple,” said a local hotelier.
The proposed change is also expected to enhance Udupi’s visibility on the national railway map, bringing economic benefits by boosting religious tourism and related sectors.
Awaiting government decision
While the proposal enjoys broad local support, the final decision rests with the Ministry of Railways and the Union government. The KRCL report will be a key factor in determining whether the renaming can proceed.
Until then, passengers and devotees await clarity on whether Indrali station will soon bear the name of Udupi’s revered deity, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a centre of devotion and tradition.