Bengaluru is gearing up for a major upgrade in urban transport with the announcement of a 287 km circular rail network by the Ministry of Railways. Aimed at easing traffic congestion, the project will connect various peripheral areas of the city, enhancing connectivity. The government has allocated 7 crore rupees for initial studies, with plans for detailed surveys and project reports underway. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize Bengaluru's infrastructure, promising a more connected and accessible city in the coming years.
In a significant move to alleviate traffic woes, Bengaluru is set to witness the development of a 287 km circular rail network on its periphery. The Ministry of Railways has unveiled plans for this expansive project, marking a major step towards enhancing urban connectivity and infrastructure in the bustling city. The envisioned network will form a loop around Bengaluru, linking various key locations. This includes connecting Nidvanda-Doddaballapur, Doddaballapur-Devanahalli, Devanahalli-Malur, Malur-Heelalige, Hejjala-Solur, Solur-Nidavanda, and Hejjala-Heelalige. These segments, ranging from 28.5 km to 52 km, are strategically chosen to cover a wide area and provide seamless travel options for residents and visitors alike. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, after a detailed meeting with department officials, revealed that the government has allocated Rs 7 crore for preliminary studies, including a pre-feasibility and alignment study. Following these initial steps, a detailed project report (DPR) and on-site surveys will be conducted. Vaishnaw emphasized the project's alignment with Bengaluru's long-term growth, envisioning a well-connected city for the next several decades. Apart from the circular rail, the minister also highlighted the ongoing suburban railway project, a joint venture between the Centre and the State. The KRIDE (Rail Infrastructure Development Company (Karnataka) Limited), a collaborative entity of the State government and the Ministry of Railways, looks after the execution of this project. He stressed the importance of this project for Bengaluru's development and assured that the necessary funds would be released soon. The suburban railway project has experienced delays due to technical challenges. Vaishnaw acknowledged these issues and committed to addressing them with the State government, underscoring the technical expertise required for such an ambitious project. The minister's emphasis was on transcending political barriers to deliver essential infrastructure to the public. In addition to the circular rail project, Vaishnaw updated on the progress of other key railway initiatives in the city. These include the quadrupling of the railway line between Bengaluru and Whitefield, the addition of new facilities at Bengaluru Cantonment, and the redevelopment of Yeshwantpur railway station. He assured that these projects are on track and will be completed within their respective timelines. In conclusion, the planned circular rail network around Bengaluru marks a transformative step in the city's journey towards becoming a more connected and accessible urban hub. This project, along with other ongoing railway developments, reflects a concerted effort to address transportation challenges and foster sustainable urban growth. As these initiatives progress, Bengaluru is set to redefine its infrastructure landscape, paving the way for a more efficient and vibrant city life.