Mysuru Citizens Push For Direct Rail Link To Goa Tourism Corridor
Mysuru residents and public transport advocates have renewed their call to extend an existing train route to directly connect the city with Goa. The proposal involves extending the Yeshwantpur–Murdeshwar Express to Vasco Da Gama, passing through Mysuru, a long-standing demand supported by several civic groups and local stakeholders. Advocates argue this extension would bridge a crucial gap in Karnataka’s railway network and unlock immense potential for tourism, commerce, and connectivity across southern and coastal districts.
Currently, no direct train service exists between Mysuru and Goa — two of India’s most significant tourist destinations. The proposed route extension would cover approximately 180 km beyond Murdeshwar, eliminating the need for a new train or additional rakes. Proponents believe this cost-effective solution could revitalise rail access across interior Karnataka, including areas such as Ramanagara, Hassan, Subramanya, and Uttara Kannada, which remain underserved despite infrastructure availability. The plan has received consent from regional rail zones, but activists express frustration over delays in receiving a final clearance from the Railway Board. The absence of a direct train link has wider implications for connectivity between Karnataka’s hinterlands and the western coastline. The proposal has gained renewed urgency, particularly after the earlier cancellation of the Karwar–Bengaluru Express via Mysuru.
Transport advocates argue that reviving and expanding this connection through the proposed route will not only serve tourists but also students, small-scale traders, and seasonal workers. Areas like Gokarna, Kumta, and Canacona would benefit from improved rail accessibility, enhancing local economies and regional mobility. In addition to bolstering tourism, the extension supports equitable development across diverse geographies. Mysuru has seen steady air traffic to Goa in the past, with flights operating at high occupancy, reinforcing the latent demand. Experts say this is an opportunity to shift passenger preference from road and air to more sustainable rail travel. Such modal shift would reduce the region’s carbon footprint while improving transport resilience. The call for improved rail integration is also in line with broader goals to expand low-emission public transit across urban and rural India.
Despite administrative hurdles, the demand reflects a public consensus on prioritising accessible and green transport infrastructure. Mysuru’s civic groups are urging faster decision-making to ensure timely implementation. They maintain that efficient intercity rail links are not just a matter of convenience but a necessity for inclusive growth, particularly in areas with limited transport alternatives. The final decision now lies with the Railway Board, whose approval could pave the way for a transformative shift in Karnataka’s rail connectivity.
