With people of coastal region awaiting the launch of a Vande Bharat Express service between Mangaluru and Bengaluru, P. Ananth, General Manager, South Western Railway (SWR), inspected the trial run of the train between Sakleshpur and Subrahmanya Road stations on August 18.

He reviewed the ongoing infrastructure and passenger amenity work being undertaken in the section.

The Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya Road section, passing through the Western Ghats, is a challenging railway stretch characterised by steep gradients, tunnels, bridges, and curves. During the inspection, the General Manager reviewed the operational and safety aspects associated with the Vande Bharat Express trial run. He assessed the preparedness of the railway infrastructure along the section.

Mr. Ananth inspected the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme work at Sakleshpur and Subrahmanya Road stations. He reviewed the progress of station redevelopment work, passenger amenities, platform facilities, circulating areas, and other infrastructure improvements being undertaken under the scheme.

During the inspection, the General Manager emphasised the importance of completing the ongoing work within the stipulated timelines while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and passenger convenience. He reviewed the preparedness of the stations and advised the officials concerned to ensure effective coordination and close monitoring of the work.

Mudit Mittal, Manager, Mysuru division, was present during the inspection. The officers briefed the General Manager on the progress of various work, and the operational and infrastructure requirements of the section.