Train operations on the Konkan Railway network faced significant disruptions for the second consecutive day due to water seepage issues in Goa’s Pernem tunnel, prompting widespread cancellations and reroutings of services. The disruption, which began on Tuesday afternoon, has impacted the travel plans of numerous passengers, with 19 express trains cancelled and several others rerouted or partially cancelled.
Among the affected services were key routes such as the CSMT-Madgaon-CSMT Vande Bharat Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, Tejas Express, Mandovi Express, LTT-Mangaluru Express, CSMT-Mangaluru Express, and Madgaon-Sawantwadi-Madgaon passenger trains. Additionally, 24 long-distance trains were rerouted, while two trains were partially cancelled and three operated on shorter routes due to the operational challenges in the Madure and Pernem sections of the Karwar region. The initial incident of water seepage was reported on Tuesday afternoon, disrupting services until late evening when temporary restoration efforts were completed. However, the problem resurfaced early Wednesday morning, causing further disruptions until the issue was resolved later in the evening.
Konkan Railway officials, including the chairman and managing director, have been actively managing the situation on-site, with a dedicated team of over 100 workers, 25 supervisors, and international consultants mobilized to address the tunnel seepage. The challenge, exacerbated by accumulated water and slush beneath the tracks inside the tunnel, necessitated continuous efforts to maintain operational safety and service reliability. Despite the disruptions, Konkan Railway has assured affected passengers of comprehensive assistance through regular updates, announcements, and operational continuity of onboard amenities such as canteens. The network, known for its extensive use of tunnels with a total of 91 across its route, continues to face challenges associated with maintaining infrastructure integrity amidst natural and operational adversities.
The incident underscores the critical need for robust infrastructure management and proactive maintenance practices to ensure uninterrupted railway services along the Konkan Railway corridor. As authorities continue to monitor and address the aftermath of the tunnel seepage incidents, passengers are advised to stay informed through official channels for updates on service restoration and alternative travel arrangements.
