Mangaluru-Subrahmanya MEMU train service to resume after 29 years?

Mangaluru: The long-discontinued Mangaluru-Subrahmanya passenger train, which was halted 29 years ago, is likely to make a comeback. Responding to growing demand from passengers, the railway department is considering launching a new MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) service on this route.

The original Mangaluru-Subrahmanya passenger train used to operate on meter-gauge tracks, departing Subrahmanya at 6:30 AM and returning from Mangaluru by 8 PM. Thousands of commuters benefitted from this service until it was discontinued in 1995.

Plans for MEMU Train

Earlier, the railway department cited reasons like the lack of space for overnight parking of trains at Subrahmanya and congestion on the tracks. However, with the development of MEMU trains, which feature engine systems on both ends, the resumption of this service is now under review.

For MEMU services to operate, the railway route must be electrified. The Mangaluru-Subrahmanya route has already been electrified, with power supplied from Padil. However, to ensure uninterrupted power supply, a transformer substation is being constructed at Neralakatte. Once power is supplied by KPTCL, the MEMU train services can likely begin.

Passenger Demand

Railway activist Anil Hegde expressed concern over the inconvenience faced by daily commuters due to the suspension of the earlier passenger train services. “The shift from meter gauge to broad gauge should not have affected the operations of this vital train service, which was highly beneficial for Subrahmanya residents,” he said.

Another railway activist, Vinayachandra Yedamangala, highlighted the challenges faced by commuters due to limited train services. “Stations like Narimogaru, Kaniyoor, Yedamangala, and others are left underutilized. Instead of making excuses, the department should show the willpower to revive this service,” he added.

New Subrahmanya-Dharmasthala Rail Route?

Recently, Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna announced plans for a new railway line connecting Kukke Subrahmanya and Dharmasthala, two major pilgrimage sites. He highlighted the convenience this would offer to pilgrims traveling from across the country. However, questions remain about the feasibility of this project, including land acquisition.

Government’s Next Steps

According to MP Brijesh Chowta, the electrification work on the Mangaluru-Subrahmanya route is expected to be completed by November. Discussions about restarting the passenger train service are on the agenda for the upcoming DRM (Divisional Railway Manager) meeting next month.

Local leaders like Hanumant Kamath, President of the West Coast Railway Passenger Development Committee, emphasized the importance of this train for the daily commuters and devotees visiting the holy town of Subrahmanya. He urged the authorities to prioritize the restoration of this vital service.

This development is expected to benefit thousands of commuters and pilgrims, providing a much-needed boost to the connectivity between Subrahmanya and Mangaluru.

• Translated version of Kannada article by Dinesh Ira