Authorities are confident that consequent to the completion of the track doubling between Mysuru and Bengaluru, the commuting time between the two cities could be reduced to less than 2 hours.
Not withstanding the sharp curves along the 139 km stretch between the two cities, trains can easily travel at up to 130 km per hour on the stretch, which will help reduce commuting time. The track doubling is expected to be completed by the end of this year, though the shifting of the 18th century Tipu’s armoury at Srirangapatana and the completion of the Cauvery bridges would take some time. Rajkumar Lal, Divisional Railway Manager, told media persons here on Wednesday that there are plans to introduce non-stop shuttle service between the two cities which would be a boon to the people of the region.
“With such a train service, the distance can be covered in less than 2 hours. In case of an express service, it could be completed in about 1 hour and 40 minutes,” he added. The train services will change the face of the region and give impetus to development, said Mr. Lal. While 90 per cent of track doubling has been completed, land acquisition issues at Mandya were being resolved.
Referring to Wi-Fi services on trains, the DRM said it was introduced on board the Chamundi Express through Airtel but there were signal problems along a few stretches. However, the Railways intends to have Wi-Fi at important stations through Railtel, before embarking on “Wi-Fi on wheels”. Since Bengaluru station has got Wi-Fi, the division has sought for similar facilities at Mysuru, Shivamogga and Davanagere stations.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager K. Anil Kumar and other officials were present.
Track doubling will reduce commuting time, say Railway authorities
