Mangaluru: After a 12-day suspension due to repair work following a landslide, train services between Mangaluru and Bengaluru have resumed. The disruption began on the night of 26th July when a significant landslide occurred in the Hassan district, leading to an immediate halt of all trains operating between these two major cities.
The landslide, which took place in the ghat area of Samaropadi, resulted in substantial damage that required extensive repair efforts. Despite the ongoing heavy rains and challenging weather conditions, a dedicated team of over 500 workers was deployed to address the situation. Their task involved moving more than 3,500 cubic meters of rocks, and 1 lakh bags of sand, as well as utilizing Hitachi machinery and other essential materials to stabilize and restore the railway track.
The repair work was a massive undertaking, given the adverse conditions, but the team’s diligence and determination ensured that the necessary fixes were completed within the stipulated timeframe. It is anticipated that supplementary work will continue at the site until all aspects of the repair are fully completed and the area is entirely secure.
On Thursday, the first passenger train to pass through the repaired section was train number 16575 Yesvantpur-Mangalore Junction Gomateshwar Express. This marked the resumption of normal train operations on this crucial route. The Railway Department has assured the public that all trains on this route will operate according to their scheduled timings.
General Manager of the Mysore Division of the Railway Department, Aravinda Srivastava, along with AGM K.S. Jain, extended their appreciation to the repair teams for their hard work and swift action in restoring the service. This achievement is notable, especially considering a similar breakdown occurred due to heavy rains in August 2018.
Following the resumption of services, several train routes have been reinstated. These include:
- KSR Bangalore-Kannur (16511)
- SMVT Bangalore-Murudeshwar (16586)
- KSR Bangalore-Karwara Panchganga (16595)
- Vijayapura-Mangalore Central Express Special (07377)
- Yesvantpur-Mangalore Junction (16575)
Passengers can now travel on these trains as per the pre-established schedules, with more trains expected to restart soon.
The return to normal operations on this key railway line will provide much-needed relief to the commuters and ensure the continued connectivity between Bengaluru and Mangaluru. The Railway Department remains committed to maintaining the safety and efficiency of this route, and will continue to monitor the site for any further necessary adjustments.
