Why Does Mangalore Have Extensive Rail Connectivity to the Entire Kerala Than Karnataka?
Geography plays a significant role in the exceptional rail connectivity that Mangalore enjoys, particularly in its proximity to the state of Kerala. Mangalore stands right at the border of these two regions, and this strategic positioning allows trains to seamlessly travel along an electrified double railway line to Kerala. This connection ensures frequent and efficient transit, making it an important hub for transportation in the region.
Challenges Along the Western Ghats
Conversely, the railway connections to the rest of Karnataka are predominantly via the Western Ghats. The process of laying connectivity through the Ghats is indeed cost-effective. However, the challenge arises from the fact that this route is more difficult to navigate. The single line, non-electrified section that passes through the Ghats presents an obstacle when it comes to maintaining frequent train services.
The greater part of this route is ignored by the central government, which often does not invest in improving rail connectivity, especially for smaller cities. In contrast, Mangalore, which is the second busiest bus destination from Bangalore, has a mere 2 daily trains, with an additional one made available recently. This limited rail service has left the city isolated and is a major factor in the ongoing movement for a separate state.
Three Railway Zones Serve Mangalore
Southern Railways (SR)
Mangalore Junction (MAJN) and Mangalore Central (MAQ) are both SR stations. MAQ, in particular, feels like a distinct part of Kerala due to its staff predominantly speaking Malayalam and signs being in Malayalam. SR primarily serves the needs of Malabar and Tamil Nadu, with most of its trains bound for either Chennai or Trivandrum.
SR does not facilitate the docking and maintenance of SWR trains at MAQ, citing arbitrary reasons. The train services to Madya Goa and Mumbai are limited, with most trains heading to MAJN instead. Fortunately, there are trains from MAQ to Kannur that were extended after a legal battle, catering to the demands of Karnataka. Apart from this, there is another daily train that runs from Bangalore to Kannur through the Shoranur route.
South Western Railways (SWR)
While SWR operates two daily trains to Bangalore, the line between Sakleshpur and Subhramanya runs through a ghat section that is constrained by the Hubli-Mangalore railway division (HMRDC). This limitation reduces the capacity of trains running on this section. The transport lobby in this region is keen to prevent train services to Bangalore and other parts of Karnataka.
With SWR, the route through North Karnataka via Hubli-Madgaon is not utilized, an option that could enhance connectivity if it was adopted.
Konkan Railways (KR)
The initial jurisdiction of KR extended to the Nethravati bridge, including NMPT. However, SR extended its authority over KR, leading to ongoing losses for the latter. If MAQ and MAJN were to come under KR or SWR, the railway situation in Karnataka could improve significantly.
Given these insights, it's clear that the rail connectivity of Mangalore to Kerala is superior compared to its connections within Karnataka. Such extensive connectivity not only benefits the region's residents but also underscores the importance of geography and strategic placement in the transportation sector. The current challenges faced by railways in the region highlight the need for more investment to improve rail services and ease connectivity for all.