Archive · 21 May 2025
Electrification Nears Completion, Bringing Vande Bharat Express Closer
Railway lines between Bengaluru and Mangaluru are getting updated with electricity.
This involves a challenging stretch where it's hard to bring in materials because there aren't many roads.
The project is expected to finish by October.
During the work, some trains have been canceled to make way for the equipment needed for electrification.
This will potentially allow for the Vande Bharat Express train to run.
Freight trains are still running to ensure important goods get delivered, especially with the monsoon season approaching and roads potentially closing.
The section has special rules because of its steep hills, and trains must go slowly for safety.
Electrification of the Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya Road ghat section is expected to be completed by October.
The completion could lead to the launch of the Bengaluru–Mangaluru Vande Bharat Express.
One pair of trains per day has been cancelled from May 31 to November 2 due to the work.
The ghat section's terrain is difficult due to the lack of road access.
Freight movement is prioritized, and passenger train slots are used for electrification equipment.
- Who
- Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES) is carrying out the electrification.
- What
- Electrification of the Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya Road ghat section.
- When
- Electrification work is expected to be completed by October, and train cancellations are from May 31 to November 2.
- Where
- The Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya Road ghat section of the South Western Railway, Mysuru division.
- Why
- To facilitate the electrification of the Bengaluru-Mangaluru section, potentially enabling the Vande Bharat Express.
- Affected Route
- Bengaluru-Mangaluru section
- Unelectrified Stretch
- 36 km
- Unelectrified Section Location
- Donigal to Shiribagilu
- Electrification Completion Target
- October
- Electrification Contractor
- Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES)