The Union Railway Ministry has directed a significant administrative realignment for the Mangaluru railway area, bringing it under the Mysuru Division of South Western Railway. This long-anticipated change, confirmed by Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta on Friday, August 22, 2026, is set to take effect from October 1.
Currently bifurcated between Southern Railway and South Western Railway, the entire Mangaluru rail network up to and including Ullal will now fall under the Mysuru Division. Consequently, the interchange point between Southern Railway and South Western Railway will relocate from its current position at Padil to Ullal. Thokur railway station, however, will maintain its existing status under Konkan Railway, serving as the interchange point between Konkan Railway and South Western Railway.
This jurisdictional shift aims to resolve numerous technical and administrative challenges previously encountered under the Palakkad Division, which were hindering railway development in the coastal region. Officials anticipate the move will significantly enhance rail connectivity between Mangaluru, Mysuru, and Bengaluru, paving the way for expanded train services and accelerated infrastructure projects across the Mangaluru area. It is also expected to streamline the resolution of passenger-related issues and prioritize railway infrastructure growth in coastal Karnataka.
MP Chowta expressed his satisfaction, noting that this demand from local railway users had been a top priority since he assumed office in June 2024. "Within days of taking oath as an MP in June 2024, we had taken up this demand… Since then, we have continuously followed up on the issue and raised it several times with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw," Chowta stated, appreciating the Minister's active support. He emphasized that the decision marks a crucial step for Mangaluru, promising reduced administrative hurdles and improved coordination among railway zones.
Regarding personnel, gazetted officers will see transfers issued according to applicable rules. Non-gazetted employees will receive the option to either remain with Southern Railway or transition to South Western Railway, with seniority determined by their length of service. The official notification for this change is expected shortly.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Mangalore Today