Train services between Bengaluru and Mangaluru, and other coastal regions of Karnataka, have been significantly disrupted due to multiple landslides on the railway tracks. The incidents occurred between Yedakumari and Shirvagilu stations in the Sakleshpur taluk, following heavy rainfall in the Western Ghats region. The continuous downpour has caused large quantities of soil and boulders to crash onto the tracks, necessitating the suspension of several train services for passenger safety.
Landslide Impact on Train Operations
South Western Railway (SWR) confirmed that restoration work commenced promptly after the landslips, which began late Saturday night. A relief material train reached the affected areas to aid in the clearance operations. However, the restoration efforts are being hindered by the persistent heavy rainfall, leading to repeated landslips on the affected stretch. This has prolonged the expected duration for clearing the debris and resuming normal train operations.
Several trains have been either cancelled, partially cancelled, diverted, or terminated at intermediate stations. The Karwar–KSR Bengaluru Express was diverted via an alternate route, while the KSR Bengaluru–Karwar Express was stopped at Hassan. On Sunday, the Mangaluru Junction–Yesvantpur Express and the Yesvantpur–Mangaluru Junction Express were cancelled due to the ongoing landslips. Other affected services include the Mangaluru Central–Vijayapura Express and the Murudeshwar–SMVT Bengaluru Express, which were halted at Shirivagilu and Subrahmanya Road, respectively. The Kozhikode–KSR Bengaluru Express was also stopped at Neralakatte.
According to Manjunath Kanamadi, Chief Public Relations Officer for South Western Railway, the restoration work is taking longer than anticipated. Railway authorities have made catering arrangements at Hassan, Subrahmanya Road, Shirivagilu, and Bantwal stations to assist passengers stranded due to the disruptions.
Broader Context and Previous Incidents
The affected region, Sakleshpur taluk, is part of the Mysuru railway division and is prone to landslides during the monsoon season due to its location in the Western Ghats. This is not an isolated incident, as similar landslides have caused disruptions in train services connecting Bengaluru to Mangaluru in the past. In August 2018, a landslide between Yedakumari and Sirivagilu stations had also blocked the railway track, depositing a significant amount of mud and boulders and leading to train service suspensions. More recently, in August 2024, a landslide between Shakleshpur and Ballupet stations affected train services, causing hundreds of passengers to be stranded.
The disruptions have also impacted passengers travelling for critical events, including those scheduled to appear for the Civil Police Constable examination. Passengers are advised to check the real-time status of their trains and make alternative travel arrangements. Road routes, such as the Shiradi Ghat (NH 75) and Sampaje Ghat, are being utilized as alternatives, though they are experiencing heavy traffic and potential delays.
The South Western Railway is actively engaged in clearing the debris using heavy machinery, with railway staff working on-site. Passengers are urged to verify their train schedules before heading to the station to avoid inconvenience. The duration of the disruption will depend on the continuous efforts to clear the tracks and the weather conditions in the coming days.
The Chenab Times News Desk