Summer special may run beyond summer

MYSORE: Mysore division of the South Western Railway has sought extension of the Mysore-Shimoga Express train which was introduced as a summer special. It has also asked the authorities at the headquarters to run the train on a regular basis.
Sources in the Railways told The Times of India on Friday that in all probability the train may get an extension after June 15, the date the Railways had notified as the last date for the services.However, sources said that they have not received an official word on the extension from headquarters in Hubli.
The Mysore-Shimoga Express was introduced as a winter special in October 2002 and the authorities here got it extended on two occasions. It was again introduced from April 11 as a summer special to clear the extra rush. “Normally the headquarters intimates on the continuation of the special trains a day prior to the expiry of deadline,� sources noted. As the response to the special train service is good, the authorities here have sought the continuation of Mysore-Shimoga Express.
Meanwhile Sri Parameshwari Yuvakara Sangha has represented South Western Railway authorities to continue the Mysore-Shimoga Express saying that it is a good service. The association said that travelling by train to Shimoga is more comfortable than bus. Hence, the train is crowded, it added asking for the continuation of the Mysore-Shimoga Express.
It also asked the authorities to provide a stop at Mandagere near Krishnarajapet, to the Mysore-Mumbai Express train. Also, Mandagere is close to Sharavanabelogala. The association has also asked for improving services on the Arisikere route. It has threatened to stage a rail roko at Mandegere from July 19.
The Railway Commuters Committee has also asked the authorities to provide additional trains on the Arisikere route. It has threatened to resort to rail roko at Krishnarajapet from July 12.