Train travel in the scenic but sensitive Sakleshpur–Subrahmanya Road section in Karnataka came to a halt on Saturday morning (June 21). The disruption was caused after a landslide struck between Edakumari and Shiribagilu stations in the Dakshina Kannada district. The landslide occurred in the hilly Western Ghats area, a stretch known for its lush greenery and its occasional risks during the monsoon.
Landslide After Heavy Rainfall Delays Multiple Trains In Karnataka
A landslide in Karnataka’s Western Ghats disrupted train services early Saturday morning. According to the CNBC TV 18 reports, the railway officials revealed that boulders from a hillside slipped and fell directly onto the railway tracks, blocking the route used by both cargo and passenger trains. As a result of this hindrance, several important trains on the route were delayed.
One of the first to be affected was Train No. 16511 KSR Bengaluru–Kannur Express. According to reports, the train arrived at Kadagaravalli at 3:40 am but could not move forward due to the blockage. Train No. 16585 SMVT Bengaluru–Murdeshwar Express had also reached Sakleshpur at 3:10 am and was blocked. Another train, the Vijayapura–Mangaluru Central Express Special (Train No. 07377) that arrived at 6:26 am, had to deal with similar delays.
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Passengers Face Delays On The Scenic Route
To help passengers during the unexpected wait, railway staff quickly arranged for drinking water, tea, and light refreshments on board the stranded trains. This effort helped ensure that passengers remained comfortable while the tracks were being cleared.
Manjunath Kanamadi, Chief Public Relations Officer of South Western Railway, Hubballi, said that teams were already at work to remove the debris and resume services. According to the CNBC TV 18 reports, he also reminded passengers to check real-time updates about their trains using the NTES (National Train Enquiry System) or ‘Where is My Train’ apps on their phones.
As monsoon rains continue in the Western Ghats, such disruptions may happen again, but officials say they’re keeping a close watch and will respond quickly whenever needed. For now, passengers are advised to stay informed and patient as services slowly return to normal.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Belur Ashok