Palakkad Railway Division bifurcation dispute

The Railway Board approved the transfer of the Mangaluru area, including Mangaluru Central and Mangaluru Junction, from the Palakkad Division of Southern Railway to the Mysuru Division of South Western Railway. Scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2026, the decision has faced significant opposition from Kerala officials and political leaders.

Critics, including Chief Minister V D Satheesan, have labeled the move a “unilateral” decision made without state consultation. Concerns have been raised regarding the financial stability of the Palakkad Division, with reports suggesting a potential revenue loss of up to 60 percent or approximately 1,100 crore rupees due to the loss of major freight and passenger income sectors.

In response, members of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) have initiated protests, including sit-ins and hunger strikes in Palakkad. MP Shashi Tharoor described the bifurcation as “unfortunate,” while Kerala Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene, alleging the decision was politically motivated. Conversely, the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomed the change, suggesting it would better integrate the region with Karnataka.