The train service linking Bengaluru’s KIA Halt station to various parts of the city is experiencing notably low usage, with South Western Railway (SWR) reporting an average daily ridership of just 30 passengers. This relatively underwhelming performance highlights the challenges facing the KIA Halt station, a facility designed to enhance connectivity for airport users and staff.
Inaugurated in 2021 by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the KIA Halt station is situated 3.5 km from the airport. Despite its strategic location, the train service, which includes six trains operating from KSR Bengaluru, Yeshwantpur, and Bengaluru Cantonment stations, appears to be struggling to attract consistent patronage.
Several factors contribute to the low ridership. Many Bengalureans are either unaware of this transport option or find that its timings do not align well with their travel schedules. The primary alternatives remain personal vehicles, on-demand cabs, and BMTC’s Vayu Vajra buses, with cab fares from central Bengaluru to the airport averaging around Rs 900. Recent fare hikes by BIAL for ride-hailing services have not significantly shifted commuter preferences.
A sustainability practitioner, reflects the sentiments of many locals. He notes that the inconvenience of multiple transfers and the lengthy journey from his residence in Vivek Nagar diminishes the appeal of the train service. Similarly, civic activist Rajkumar Dugar highlights operational inefficiencies, including infrequent service and unreliable punctuality, which undermine the train’s attractiveness as a viable option for airport commutes. Dugar has encountered delays and random service suspensions, reinforcing the perception of the train service as unreliable. Rail activist K N Krishna Prasad points to fundamental design issues as a root cause of these problems. The trains, which extend to Chikkaballapur and Kolar, face delays due to single-track constraints beyond Yelahanka. To address these issues and increase ridership, Prasad suggests practical improvements, including additional boarding points in high-density areas such as Whitefield and Kengeri, increased frequency of trains from KSR Bengaluru station, and extending service throughout the week.
In conclusion, while the KIA Halt station has the potential to provide a significant transportation alternative, its current performance reflects a mismatch between service design and commuter needs. Implementing strategic improvements could enhance its appeal and effectiveness in serving Bengaluru’s airport-bound travellers.
