Udupi: The long-pending demand of passengers using the Udupi railway station was finally addressed with the inauguration of upgraded passenger amenities constructed at a cost of around ₹2.40 crore. The facilities were inaugurated on January 14 with the support of the district administration, marking a significant milestone in improving railway infrastructure for commuters in the coastal region.

The inauguration was carried out under the Amrit Bharat Railway Station Scheme, a flagship initiative of the Union government aimed at transforming railway stations across the country into modern, passenger-friendly hubs. Speaking on the occasion, Udupi–Chikkamagaluru Member of Parliament Kota Srinivas Poojary said the makeover of the station would greatly enhance the travel experience of thousands of passengers who use the station every day.

Amrit Bharat scheme brings complete makeover

Under the Amrit Bharat Railway Station Scheme, the Udupi railway station has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, giving it a modern and improved appearance while enhancing functionality. The works were executed by the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited and focused on addressing long-standing passenger needs.

The newly inaugurated amenities include improved waiting areas, better seating arrangements, enhanced lighting, upgraded signage and other facilities designed to ensure convenience, safety and comfort. MP Kota Srinivas Poojary said the revamped station would now better reflect the cultural and economic importance of the region it serves.

He noted that for years, passengers had been demanding improved amenities at the station, especially given the steady increase in footfall. “With these facilities now in place, Udupi railway station will serve as a gateway to the coastal belt with a modern outlook,” he said.

Major railway investments planned for coastal districts

Highlighting the Centre’s commitment to railway development in the region, MP Poojary said Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav has approved works worth nearly ₹100 crore for upgrading railway stations across the coastal districts. These projects are expected to significantly strengthen rail connectivity and passenger infrastructure.

As part of the first phase of development, Platform Number 2 at Udupi railway station will be upgraded at a cost of ₹2.6 crore. The project includes the installation of three lifts to facilitate easy movement for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and passengers carrying heavy luggage.

The MP said such facilities are essential to make railway travel inclusive and accessible to all sections of society.

Upgradation of Barkur and Mulki stations

In addition to works at Udupi, railway platforms at Barkur and Mulki will also be upgraded. These works are estimated to cost ₹4.28 crore and will focus on improving basic infrastructure and passenger amenities.

MP Poojary said that during the current financial year, the Centre is expected to approve development works at as many as 10 railway stations, with a total investment of around ₹105 crore. These projects aim to modernise stations, improve safety standards and provide better facilities in line with growing passenger expectations.

He added that such investments would have a long-term impact on regional development by improving connectivity, boosting tourism and supporting economic activity along the coast.

Call for double-tracking and train extensions

The MP also stressed the urgent need to double-track the railway line from Mangaluru to Karwar, citing increasing train traffic and delays caused by congestion on the single line. He said a detailed project report (DPR) would be prepared and submitted to the Union railway minister to expedite the process.

“Double-tracking has become a necessity rather than a choice. It will improve punctuality, enhance safety and allow more trains to operate on this busy stretch,” he said.

MP Poojary further proposed extending the Madgaon–Mangaluru Vande Bharat Express up to Mumbai and extending the Bengaluru–Mangaluru train services up to Karwar. According to him, these extensions would greatly benefit passengers travelling for work, education, healthcare and tourism.

Talks with Konkan Railway and station renaming proposal

The MP said discussions would be held with Konkan Railway authorities to resolve existing obstacles related to infrastructure expansion and land availability. He expressed confidence that coordination between the Centre, the railway authorities and the state administration would help overcome challenges.

He also revealed that efforts would be made to rename Udupi railway station as “Sri Krishna Railway Station”, reflecting the city’s spiritual and cultural identity. The proposal, he said, would be taken up with the Union government following due procedure.

Dignitaries attend inauguration

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several elected representatives and senior officials, including MLAs Yashpal A Suvarna and Gurme Suresh Shetty. Konkan Railway chairman and managing director Santosh Kumar Jha and Karwar divisional railway manager Asha Shetty were also present, along with other officials and guests.

Speakers at the event welcomed the completion of the passenger amenities and said continued investment in railway infrastructure would strengthen public confidence in rail transport.

Conclusion

The inauguration of upgraded passenger amenities at Udupi railway station marks an important step in modernising railway infrastructure in the coastal region. With major investments planned under the Amrit Bharat Railway Station Scheme, proposals for new projects and expanded train services, the rail network is poised to play a bigger role in supporting mobility, tourism and economic growth in the years ahead.