Railways to construct new terminal at Devanahalli; Bengaluru suburban rail corridor deadline pushed to 2027

Plans to construct two additional platforms at KSR Bengaluru station, with an estimated budget of Rs 180 crore, and plans for a circular railway network around Bengaluru covering 280 km are in progress to accommodate increased passenger demand, he said. 

Somanna stated that two suburban rail corridors — Benniganahalli to Chikkabanavara (25 km) and Heelalige to Rajanukunte (46.8 km) —  are scheduled for completion by March 2027. He said that Rail Infrastructure Development Company (Karnataka) Ltd (KRIDE) and the Railways are working towards expediting the project. 

Initially planned to be finished within 72 months (6 years) of its approval in October 2020, the project saw its foundation stone laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2022. At the time, Modi had assured that the long-pending project that was delayed for 40 years would be completed within 40 months.

Somanna also said that the quadrupling of the railway line between Bengaluru Cantonment and Whitefield is progressing well and is expected to enhance connectivity in the region.

‘Rainwater drainage is primary challenge’

Following the inspection of railway infrastructure works, Somanna pointed out that the primary challenge in the region has been rainwater drainage and emphasized the importance of addressing this issue. 

He mentioned that the focus will be on constructing or improving Road Over Bridges (ROBs), Road Under Bridges (RUBs), underpasses, and water vents to ease the flow of traffic and water. He also mentioned that steps will be taken to rename the Bellandur Road Railway Station to Panathur Railway Station.