Two MEMU train services will be extended to Ashokapuram from February 16, 2025, while more services may start from April 1
Mysuru railway passengers received mixed news as the Railway Board approved the extension of eight train pairs to Ashokapuram, but the South Western Railway (SWR) has decided to extend only two pairs of MEMU trains for now.
The newly extended MEMU services will begin on February 16, 2025, with the following tentative schedules:
- Train 06525/26 KSR Bengaluru – Ashokapuram MEMU:
- 06525 departs from KSR Bengaluru at 16:45 hrs, reaches Mysuru at 19:25 hrs, and arrives at Ashokapuram at 19:45 hrs.
- 06526 departs Ashokapuram at 20:05 hrs, reaches Mysuru at 20:20 hrs, and arrives at KSR Bengaluru at 23:25 hrs.
- Train 66551/52 KSR Bengaluru – Ashokapuram MEMU:
- 66551 departs from KSR Bengaluru at 09:15 hrs, reaches Mysuru at 12:25 hrs, and arrives at Ashokapuram at 13:30 hrs.
- 66552 departs Ashokapuram at 13:40 hrs, reaches Mysuru at 13:50 hrs, and arrives at KSR Bengaluru at 17:05 hrs.
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The decision follows an earlier request by SWR to extend four MEMU pairs and three long-distance trains and one conventional coach Mysuru-Bengaluru train to Ashokapuram. Although the Railway Board approved all eight pairs on February 11, 2025, only two MEMU pairs will operate initially. Sources suggest that additional services may start from April 1, 2025.
Railway activist Yogendra S highlighted that the delay in extending all approved services could be linked to the pending completion of the overhead water tank at Ashokapuram station, although MEMU trains are usually not watered at Mysuru. He emphasised that the tank is essential for long-distance trains, conventional coach Mysuru-Bengaluru train and urged authorities to start all four MEMU pairs from February 16, He cited that Ashokapuram’s remodeled work was inaugurated in March 2024.
The Ashokapuram Railway Station has undergone a major upgrade, costing ₹15.7 crore for Phase 1 and ₹13.39 crore for Phase 2. It now boasts six platforms, an extended foot overbridge, additional platform lines, and improved coach watering and stabling facilities. These enhancements aim to ease congestion at Mysuru Junction and improve train operations.