Bengaluru is poised to tackle its escalating traffic woes with the announcement of an ambitious 271-kilometre circular railway network, requiring approximately 2,500 acres of land. This long-term infrastructure project aims to enhance urban mobility by connecting peripheral areas and integrating seamlessly with upcoming suburban railways and national highways, offering sustainable transport solutions for both commuters and industries.
Officials overseeing the project emphasised that the circular railway is designed as a forward-looking initiative to address Bengaluru’s traffic congestion and mobility challenges over the next five decades. By linking outer city regions, the network seeks to redistribute commuter flow, reduce vehicular congestion on roads, and contribute to the city’s environmental goals by encouraging public transit usage. The proposed circular route consists of three main segments: Nidavanda to Doddaballapura to Devanahalli to Malur, Malur to Anekal to Hejjala, and Hejjala to Soluru back to Nidavanda. The scale of the project demands significant land acquisition, estimated at about 2,500 acres, which the Central Government will fully fund. This underscores a strong commitment to developing eco-friendly infrastructure while ensuring financial feasibility and accountability.
Transport experts highlight that Bengaluru’s rapid urbanisation and expanding economic footprint have outpaced its current infrastructure capacity, making comprehensive rail networks essential to sustainable urban growth. The circular railway is expected to support equitable access across diverse city zones, integrating industrial hubs, residential areas, and commercial corridors with efficient transit options. A recent high-level review meeting involving senior railway officials assessed the preliminary planning stages, affirming the project’s alignment with regional development priorities. Discussions also included related railway enhancements in Karnataka, such as new lines from Tumakuru to Rayadurga and Tumakuru to Davangere, alongside progress on road over bridges (ROBs), road under bridges (RUBs), and pedestrian subways, further boosting connectivity and safety.
The network’s design not only facilitates passenger movement but also supports freight logistics, recognising the vital role of Bengaluru as an economic engine for southern India. By linking peripheral areas with suburban lines and highways, the railway network aims to streamline goods transport, reduce truck congestion on roads, and lower carbon emissions associated with freight movement. Sustainability remains central to the project, reflecting Bengaluru’s broader ambition to develop gender-neutral, accessible, and eco-friendly transport infrastructure. Incorporating modern rail technologies and seamless multimodal integration, the circular railway will potentially encourage a modal shift from private vehicles to public transit, mitigating pollution and traffic stress in one of India’s fastest-growing cities.
Challenges around land acquisition, environmental clearances, and stakeholder coordination are acknowledged but are being addressed through detailed planning and government support. Officials stress the importance of transparent processes and community engagement to ensure that the project benefits all sections of society equitably. As Bengaluru prepares for this transformative infrastructure upgrade, the circular railway stands as a critical piece in the city’s vision for a sustainable future. By anticipating the transport demands of the next fifty years, it promises not only improved mobility and reduced congestion but also a greener urban environment and enhanced quality of life for millions.
The project is expected to complement ongoing and planned transport initiatives such as metro expansions, bus rapid transit systems, and non-motorised transport infrastructure, creating a comprehensive urban transit ecosystem that supports economic growth while prioritising sustainability and inclusivity.
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