CRS to inspect last bit of Mysuru-Bengaluru line doubling by Oct end

SWR says electrification work to enhance carrying capacity

Train travel between Bengaluru and Mysuru is all set to become smoother by December because South Western Railways has invited Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) to inspect the only remaining stretch of the second railway line.

“We have submitted an application to CRS for the sanction and asked for an inspection of 1.5 km railway line near Srirangapatana. We have the inspection during the last week of October. The exact date of inspection will be decided by CRS,” South Western Railway Chief Public Relations Officer E Vijaya told DH.

CRS K A Manoharan said he was receiving related documents and the inspection would be conducted once “all the papers are ready”.

“It is a small but vital stretch as it involves doubling of the entire line. This will lead to an increase in line capacity. Also, there are two important bridges that are important from a safety point of view,” he added.

If all goes well, railways will get a green signal to run trains on the stretch within a week after inspection. About 20 trains run between the two cities every day. The completion of doubling will allow for enhancing services further.

Electrification

Railways officials said electrification works on the two lines was almost completed and the CRS would be invited for inspection by December. They said the major works between Yeliyur and Mysuru were nearing completion.

Electrification will not only turn Bengaluru-Myusuru railway journey green but also reduce about half an hour of travel time of two trains. Two daily trains -- Kaveri express (between Chennai and Mysuru) and Chamarajanagar-Tirupathi express; undergo power change from electrical to diesel or viceversa at Bengaluru.

As electric locomotives chug through the stations, they can help save 20 to 30 minutes spent on power change each time.

“Some minor yard works and traction substation works are in progress. We may get necessary approvals by Electrical Inspector to the Government of India by the end of November. Inspection can be planned tentatively in the last week of November,” the chief public relations officer added.

MEMU train to Ramanagaram

The electrification of lines between Bengaluru and Mysuru will also boost suburban service, a demand pending for years considering that express trains do not stop at all the stations.

“Once electrification between Yeliyur and Mysuru is completed, MEMU services that are currently terminating at Ramanagaram can be extended to Mysuru,” E Vijaya said.