Mysuru-Kushalnagar rly line gets nod

The Union government has approved the new rail route between Mysuru and Kodagu via Belagola, which faced stiff opposition from a section of the people.

The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned Rs 1854.62 crore for the 87-km new line between Belagola in Srirangapatna of Mandya district, and Kushalnagar in Somwarpet of Kodagu district. Once a project is approved, it enters the ‘Pink Book’ of the Railways and the project will be implemented.

With this, Kodagu district will be getting a rail route and it will be beneficial for the people of Mysuru, Periyapatna, Bylakuppe and Kushalnagar. Besides, it will also help in boosting tourism and local economy. It may be mentioned that lakh tourists visit Kodagu district every year.

The members of Mysuru Railway Balekedarara Sangha have thanked Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal and MP Prathap Simha for sanctioning the project.

It may be recalled that the project was delayed as environmentalists were against the it, expressing concern that the rail route passing through Kodagu district may have an impact on the flora and fauna. A survey had been conducted in 2011 for a rail route between Mysuru and Kushalnagar. But, the plan was dropped as it was considered to be not profitable. Now, the Railways has given an official nod and the works will commence soon.