Konkan Railway: A Dream Come True

this is the story of the triumph of technology over terrain. It is the story of how Indian engineers battled against all odds to turn a hundred-year-old dream into reality, accomplishing their mission in just seven years. It is the story of will power, dedication and determination. The Konkan Railway is the missing link between India’s commercial capital, Mumbai, and Mangalore. The 760-Kilometre line connects Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka-a region of criss-crossing rivers, plunging valleys and mountains that soar into the clouds. The Konkan is a coastal strip of land bounded by the Sahyadri hills on the east, and Arabian Sea on the west. The completion of the Konkan Railway was a “tryst with destiny” for many people in the Konkan region, redeemed in the 50th year of the nation’s Independence. It is hence entirely fitting that the first train on the completed track was flagged off on January 26, 1998, Republic Day. Today, as we dedicate the Konkan Railway to the nation, it is with pride in our hearts. On this occasion, we also pay homage to those who sacrificed their lives while building it. Their contribution will never be forgotten.