Indian Railways Electrifies Challenging Sakleshpur-Subramanya Section
The Indian Railways has marked a significant achievement by successfully electrifying the challenging Sakleshpur-Subramanya Road Ghat Section, a part of one of the most technically difficult terrains within its network. Following a successful trial of an electric locomotive on December 28, 2025, this section is now fully equipped for electric train operations, enhancing connectivity between Bengaluru and Mangaluru.
The electrification of this 55-kilometer ghat stretch ensures that the entire Bengaluru-Mangaluru rail route is now electrified. This milestone is set to improve operational efficiency, rail connectivity, and sustainability in the region. The project also facilitates the operation of advanced electric trains like the Vande Bharat, providing passengers with faster, cleaner, and more reliable transit options to the coastal areas.
Complex Engineering Undertaking
The Sakleshpur-Subramanya section presents unique engineering challenges, including a steep gradient of 1 in 50, a network of 57 tunnels, 226 bridges, and 108 sharp curves. This area is also notorious for landslides during the monsoon, making electrification a formidable challenge. The project began in December 2023 and involved extensive measures for safety and reliability. Five switching stations were constructed alongside full overhead electrification, with a maximum distance of 67.5 meters between traction poles.
Ensuring Safety in Tunnels
Special attention was given to the electrification within the 57 tunnels along the route, where 427 main and spare brackets were installed. The National Institute of Rock Mechanics and Bangalore University contributed to comprehensive geological studies necessary for this endeavor. Pull-out tests at each bracket location ensured the anchoring strength required for long-term safety.
Despite frequent setbacks from heavy rainfall, landslides, and rockfalls, meticulous planning allowed work to progress while maintaining safe train operations. Material transport to remote sites was often challenging but managed effectively throughout the project.
Boosting Economic Linkages
With electrification completed and trials successful, electric traction is now available, which promises reduced fuel consumption and emissions. This will also pave the way for modern electric superfast train services, including the much-anticipated Vande Bharat. The electrification of this essential route is expected to strengthen the economic ties between Bengaluru, India’s IT hub, and the coastal city of Mangaluru, alongside enhancing commercial activity across the region.
Union Minister for Railways, Communications, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating, “Now we will be able to run Vande Bharat train through this route to Mangaluru.”
Additionally, Indian Railways has made remarkable progress in its electrification efforts, having electrified over 99% of its Broad Gauge network since 2014. With the completion of this project, the railway is on track to create one of the world’s largest fully electrified networks, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability, energy security, and enhanced travel experiences for millions of passengers daily.
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