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Karnataka has received its highest-ever railway budget allocation, with focus on station redevelopment, electrification and new line expansion. Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna stated that 61 stations are being upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, while 31 railway line projects are in progress. Electrification has reached about 97 per cent in the South Western Railway zone, improving efficiency. Key works also include safety upgrades through Kavach and infrastructure inspections across key sections, reflecting a continued push towards modernisation.
Karnataka has received a record allocation in the Union Budget for the railway sector, with the Centre continuing to increase investments in infrastructure development across the state. Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti V Somanna, during his visit to Bengaluru, stated that the higher allocation reflects the government's focus on expanding capacity, improving safety and upgrading passenger infrastructure.
He indicated that 61 railway stations across Karnataka are currently being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The redevelopment includes improvements in passenger amenities, station accessibility, and better integration with local transport systems. Key stations such as KSR Bengaluru, Yesvantpur and Bengaluru Cantonment are part of this plan, where modernisation work is underway to handle growing passenger traffic and improve overall travel experience.
The minister further stated that 31 new railway line projects are under different stages of execution in the state. These projects are aimed at improving regional connectivity and supporting economic activity by linking underserved areas. He added that such expansion has been supported by a steady rise in budgetary allocation over the past few years, which has enabled faster project execution compared to earlier periods.
Electrification work has also progressed significantly, with about 97 per cent of the route kilometres under the South Western Railway zone now electrified. This has helped in reducing dependence on diesel and improving operational efficiency. A key milestone achieved is the full electrification of the 55 km Sakleshpur Subrahmanya Ghat section, which is considered technically challenging due to difficult terrain and heavy rainfall conditions.
In terms of safety, the indigenous Kavach system is being implemented across sections of the railway network in the state. The system is designed to prevent train collisions and improve overall operational safety. The minister indicated that such technologies are being prioritised as part of the broader modernisation plan.
He also carried out an inspection of the Bengaluru Mandya railway section, where he reviewed infrastructure readiness, safety measures and ongoing works. Senior railway officials and public representatives were present during the inspection, reflecting continued monitoring of key infrastructure projects.
Past data shows that Karnataka's railway allocation has increased multiple times over the last decade, supporting major works such as doubling of lines, electrification and station redevelopment. The current allocation builds on this trend and is expected to accelerate ongoing and planned projects across the state.
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