Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Dec 29: South Western Railway (SWR) has successfully completed the electrification of the technically challenging 55-km ghat section between Sakleshpura and Subrahmanya Road, paving the way for safer and more energy-efficient train operations.
On Sunday, the SWR Mysuru division conducted a successful electric locomotive trial along the section, which is characterised by a steep 1-in-50 gradient, 57 tunnels, 258 bridges, 108 sharp curves and a high risk of landslides. Officials described the route as one of the most demanding stretches in the country for electrification.
The project, which began in December 2023, was completed at a cost of Rs 93.55 crore. It included the construction of five switching stations and the installation of overhead electrification along the entire section. The overhead equipment has been engineered for maximum speeds of 120 kmph, with a maximum span of 67.5 metres between traction poles to ensure operational safety.
Within the 57 tunnels, 419 main brackets and an equal number of spare brackets were installed. Detailed geological surveys of lined and unlined tunnel portions were conducted by the National Institute of Rock Mechanics and Bangalore University. Pull-out tests were carried out at every bracket to ensure proper grouting and anchoring of bolts.
An SWR spokesperson said the steep gradients and inclines, reaching up to 830 metres, required specialised equipment and robust engineering solutions to maintain tension and stability of the overhead system. The project faced severe challenges due to monsoon rains, frequent landslides, soil erosion and rockfalls, often necessitating the transportation of materials by rail to otherwise inaccessible areas.
The Commissioner of Railway Safety imposed stringent operational restrictions owing to limited space and steep gradients, further complicating execution while ensuring uninterrupted train operations.
With the successful trial, the section is now fully ready for electric traction, offering cleaner, faster and more cost-effective operations. Officials said the milestone brings Indian Railways closer to its goal of 100 per cent electrification and reflects its commitment to building sustainable and resilient rail infrastructure in difficult terrain.