Mon Feb 23 14:23:21 UTC 2026: ### Udupi MP Urges Konkan Railway to Address Watering Facility Deficiencies for Coastal Trains

The Story:
Kota Srinivas Poojary, the Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP, is pushing Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. (KRCL) to establish temporary watering facilities at Udupi or Kundapur railway stations. This request follows concerns that the lack of such facilities along the coastal Karnataka route has led to the proposed Vande Bharat Express being planned to run only to Madgaon instead of Karwar. Poojary suggests implementing a model similar to the one at Kasargod Railway Station, estimating a cost of ₹15-20 lakh.

Key Points:

  • February 23, 2026: Kota Srinivas Poojary requests KRCL to arrange temporary watering facilities in Udupi or Kundapur.
  • The lack of coach watering facilities on the Karnataka coast (between Mangaluru Junction and Karwar) is impacting train operations.
  • A temporary watering facility is sought to address the immediate need, while a permanent solution is developed.
  • Poojary previously requested necessary infrastructure at Kundapur Railway station on November 5, 2025, anticipating a Vande Bharat Express between Bengaluru and Kundapur.
  • December 2, 2025: KRCL stated that there was no commercial justification to start a Vande Bharat Express from Kundapur, citing low footfall (1,057 daily) and revenue (₹2,12,428).
  • The Mangaluru Central-Madgaon-Mangaluru Central Vande Bharat Express has a low occupancy rate of about 34%.
  • Poojary emphasizes that the Vande Bharat Express, regardless of its starting point, would serve multiple pilgrimage, tourism, and educational centers.

Key Takeaways:

  • Infrastructure deficiencies, specifically the absence of coach watering facilities, are hindering the expansion of train services along coastal Karnataka.
  • There is a conflict between the local MP’s vision for enhanced rail connectivity and KRCL‘s assessment of commercial viability.
  • The MP is advocating for proactive measures to prepare for future train services, even if current demand appears low.
  • Political influence is being exerted to prioritize infrastructure development despite economic considerations.

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