Passenger Amenities Upgraded in Uttara Kannada; Kacheguda–Murdeshwar Express Extended to Kumta
In a significant boost to rail connectivity and passenger convenience in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district, several passenger-centric infrastructure projects were inaugurated on Saturday, while the Kacheguda–Murdeshwar–Kacheguda Bi-weekly Express was formally extended up to Kumta station.
The initiatives are part of Indian Railways’ broader efforts to strengthen regional connectivity and enhance passenger facilities in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under the guidance of the Ministry of Railways, Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) has been undertaking various projects aimed at improving travel comfort and operational efficiency across its network.
The newly developed passenger amenities were inaugurated by Member of Parliament from Uttara Kannada, Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri, during a function held at Kumta railway station. On the occasion, he also flagged off the extended service of Train No. 12790/12789 Kacheguda–Murdeshwar–Kacheguda Bi-weekly Express, which will now operate up to Kumta, providing enhanced connectivity between Karnataka and Telangana.
The event was attended by Kumta MLA Dinakar K. Shetty, KRCL Chairman and Managing Director Santosh Kumar Jha, Regional Railway Manager of Karwar Division Asha Shetty, senior state officials, Konkan Railway officers, public representatives, media personnel, railway employees and local residents.
Among the key infrastructure projects inaugurated were the upgradation of Platform No. 2 at Kumta station from rail level to high level, enhancement of Platform No. 1 at Gokarna Road station from middle level to high level, construction of a new bio-toilet facility at Murdeshwar station, and extension of Platform No. 2 at Bhatkal station.
Railway officials said these projects have been undertaken with the objective of improving passenger comfort, accessibility and hygiene while ensuring smoother boarding and deboarding facilities. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance the travel experience for passengers using stations across the Konkan Railway route in Uttara Kannada district.
The extension of the Kacheguda–Murdeshwar Bi-weekly Express up to Kumta is expected to provide major benefits to passengers from Kumta and nearby areas. The service will offer direct rail connectivity to important destinations in Telangana and beyond, reducing travel inconvenience and improving mobility for commuters, students, tourists, business travellers and local residents.
Officials noted that the extended train service is likely to contribute to regional economic growth by facilitating tourism and business activities. Kumta, Gokarna and Murdeshwar are among the important tourist destinations along the Karnataka coast, and improved rail connectivity is expected to attract more visitors while also supporting local commerce.
Addressing the gathering, MP Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri emphasized the importance of continuous railway infrastructure development and enhanced passenger services. He appreciated Konkan Railway’s efforts in strengthening connectivity and modernising station facilities across the Uttara Kannada region.
Kumta MLA Dinakar K. Shetty also lauded the passenger-focused initiatives undertaken by Konkan Railway, stating that improved rail infrastructure would greatly benefit residents and travellers while supporting the overall development of the district.
Speaking on the occasion, KRCL Chairman and Managing Director Santosh Kumar Jha reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to modernising passenger amenities, improving operational efficiency and expanding rail connectivity across the Konkan region. He said Konkan Railway would continue to focus on infrastructure enhancement and service improvements in line with the goals of Indian Railways.
The inauguration of the upgraded station facilities and the extension of the bi-weekly express service mark another step towards strengthening railway infrastructure in coastal Karnataka. Konkan Railway officials reiterated their commitment to providing safe, efficient and reliable rail services while continuously enhancing passenger amenities and connectivity across the network.
