The people of Murdeshwar, along with the general public, extended a warm welcome to the inaugural run of the Sir M. Vishvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru-Mangaluru via Mysuru Express, which has been extended to Murdeshwar. The train embarked on its first journey from Mangaluru Central on Sunday, September 17, marking a significant milestone for the region’s railway connectivity.
Photo Credit: ANIL KUMAR SASTRY
As the train rolled into the temple town of Murdeshwar at precisely 1:35 p.m., it was greeted with enthusiasm and fanfare. Uttara Kannada Railway Samithi president, George Fernandes, was among those leading the welcoming committee, accompanied by other members and the rhythmic beating of drums. This event marked a momentous occasion for the people of coastal Karnataka, as it signified the re-establishment of a vital rail link with Mysuru, which had been absent for nearly three years.
Rajeev Gaonkar, Secretary of the Samithi, expressed gratitude for the successful culmination of their long-standing efforts to extend the train’s route to Murdeshwar. He emphasized that this achievement was the result of a determined struggle, where the Samithi, in collaboration with its Kundapura counterpart, had tirelessly advocated for this extension. The support of Prathap Simha, the Member of Parliament representing Mysuru, and other local representatives, played a pivotal role in realizing this dream.
For far too long, despite the establishment of the Konkan Railway 25 years ago, coastal Karnataka had been bereft of rail connectivity to the state capital, Bengaluru. The Samithi had previously fought a legal battle nearly 15 years ago to secure this connection, only to see it canceled by KRCL (Konkan Railway Corporation Limited) when the Bengaluru-Karwar Panchaganga Express via Padil was introduced, inadvertently disconnecting the region from Mysuru.
With the extension of the SMVTB-Mangaluru Central Express (Train No. 16585) to Murdeshwar, the people of the region now have a vital link to Mysuru once again. Rajeev Gaonkar urged the public to take full advantage of this newfound connectivity and underscored the importance of community support in realizing such critical transportation infrastructure.
The extension of this railway service is not just a convenience for travelers; it’s a testament to the determination of the people and their unwavering commitment to improving regional connectivity. As the train continues to serve the residents of coastal Karnataka, it promises to play a crucial role in enhancing accessibility and economic development in the area.
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