Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru 

Mangaluru, Feb 11: Rail commuters in Mangaluru are bracing for a double blow as the South Western Railway (SWR) has proposed significant changes to two popular train services connecting the coastal city to Bengaluru and Mysuru.

According to sources, the SWR is considering the cancellation or alteration of the Mangaluru-Madgaon Vande Bharat Express and the Gommateshwara Express (Mangaluru-Yeshwanthpur via Shravanabelagola).

The Vande Bharat Express, which was introduced with much fanfare to provide high-speed connectivity to Goa, has reportedly been seeing lower occupancy on certain stretches. This has led to discussions about its potential withdrawal or route realignment.

On the other hand, the Gommateshwara Express, which is a vital link for those traveling between Mangaluru and Bengaluru via the Shravanabelagola route, is also facing scrutiny. There are reports that the SWR might change the timings or even divert the train, which would significantly impact passengers who prefer this route for its shorter distance compared to the Mysuru line.

These proposed moves have drawn sharp criticism from rail activist groups and frequent travelers. They argue that instead of improving services and addressing the long-pending demand for a dedicated night train to Bengaluru, the railway authorities are moving to curtail existing popular services.

The Konkan Railway and SWR officials have not yet released an official statement regarding the final decision, but the reports have already caused concern among the public in the coastal region.