Mysuru: The long-pending issue of track electrification near Mysuru airport on the Mysuru–Chamarajanagar section was finally resolved.According to divisional railway manager (DRM) Mudit Mittal of the Mysuru division, South Western Railway, fully electrified train operations on this route are expected to commence within the next two weeks, provided the work progresses as planned.“The 850-meter unelectrified stretch near the airport has now been reduced to just 250 meters. Once this remaining section is addressed, all trains running between Mysuru and Chamarajanagar—currently operated with both diesel (five pairs) and electric locomotives (two trains) — will run entirely on electric traction,” said Mittal.The railway line runs close and nearly perpendicular to the Mysuru airport runway. Installing overhead electric wires in this zone posed a potential safety risk, as they could interfere with aircraft navigation systems. As a result, the Airport Authority of India (AAI) initially denied clearance for the installation of electric masts.Explaining the solution, Mittal said, “The 250-meter stretch near the runway and flight approach path will remain without overhead cables. Trains approaching this section at 40 kmph can easily coast through the unelectrified stretch, after which power will resume, allowing normal speeds of up to 70 kmph.” The AAI has now given its no objection certificate (NoC) to execute the pending work.1.6L passengers travelled during VijayadashamiDuring the Dasara festival, the Mysuru division handled a record 1.6 lakh passengers on Vijayadashami day, with 51 special trains operated to meet the festive rush. Enhanced security measures, including additional staff deployment and the installation of more CCTV cameras, helped manage the crowd effectively.
