Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya Ghat Electrification To Boost Bengaluru–Mangaluru Rail Link: Chowta

Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta has said that the completion of electrification works on the challenging 55-km Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya ghat section marks a major milestone in strengthening railway infrastructure in the coastal region.

Describing the project as a long-pending demand of the region, Chowta said electrification of the ghat section would significantly improve rail connectivity between Bengaluru and Mangaluru.

“The electrification of the ghat section is expected to significantly accelerate railway infrastructure development in this part of the state, facilitating freight movement to the coast, port operations, smoother train services and a boost to commercial activities,” Chowta stated in a press statement.

The MP said the electrification of the Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya section would give a major boost to railway infrastructure in the coastal belt and address one of the most critical bottlenecks on the Bengaluru–Mangaluru rail corridor.

He noted that the ghat section is among the most technically demanding stretches in the railway network and its electrification would improve efficiency and reliability of train services.

Capt Chowta expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of the district to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Minister of State for Railways V Somanna, who took special interest in implementing the project. He also thanked railway officials and staff who worked under challenging technical conditions to complete this historic project within the stipulated time frame.

The MP said improving the Mangaluru–Bengaluru rail link has been a priority since he assumed office. He recalled that soon after being elected, he had submitted a detailed memorandum to the Railway Ministry seeking doubling and electrification of the Padil–Subrahmanya–Sakleshpur route.

He had also raised questions in the Lok Sabha on measures to enhance capacity, speed and operational efficiency on the corridor.

During discussions in Parliament and meetings with railway officials, Chowta consistently highlighted the strategic importance of the Mangaluru–Bengaluru route for both passenger and freight traffic, including cargo movement from New Mangaluru Port to the hinterland. He had also urged the government to expedite modernisation works on the ghat section, citing its role in supporting the economic growth of the coastal region.