Five years after its suspension during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mangaluru Central–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Navayuga Express (16687/16688) remains non-operational, prompting renewed calls from the public and local leaders for its resumption.

The long-distance train, which once connected Mangaluru in Karnataka directly to Katra in Jammu & Kashmir, was the only such rail link between the southern coast and the northernmost state. Though several other train services across the country have resumed post-pandemic, this crucial route remains inactive.

The Navayuga Express served pilgrims, students, defence personnel, and long-distance travelers, covering a vast 3,686-km route that spanned 13 states. Starting every Monday at 5 PM from Mangaluru Central, the train passed through Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and finally reached Katra in Jammu & Kashmir. It connected major pilgrimage centers across the country and took about 70 hours and 5 minutes, making it India’s fourth-longest rail journey by distance.

Public Demands Route Revision and Resumption
With changing travel patterns, passengers are now demanding that the train be restarted via a revised route — passing through Hassan, Arsikere, Davangere, Hubballi, Belagavi, Miraj, and Pune, instead of its earlier route through Kasaragod and Palakkad. Given that a separate train is already operational between Tirunelveli and Katra, locals feel the Mangaluru-Katra Navayuga Express could be effectively re-routed to serve a broader commuter base across central Karnataka and Maharashtra.

Political Support for Revival
Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta confirmed he had already appealed to the Union Minister for Railways regarding the matter and assured the public that he will raise the issue again.

“The Mangaluru–Vaishno Devi Katra Navayuga Express must be reinstated. It was a vital link for lakhs of passengers, and I have already submitted a request to the Railway Minister. I will follow up on it again,” said the MP.
As the public voice grows stronger, pressure mounts on the railway authorities to bring back the much-needed long-distance train service that once bridged the cultural and spiritual heartlands of southern and northern India.