The ambitious Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project (BSRP) is set to regain momentum after months of stagnation, with K-RIDE initiating fresh tenders for two corridors where work had stalled due to contractual disputes. The decision by the K-RIDE board follows legal and operational reviews, signalling a renewed effort to meet the city’s growing suburban transit needs.
The corridors in focus include Corridor 2 (Benniganahalli–Chikkabanavara, 25.01 km) and Corridor 4 (Heelalige–Rajanukunte, 46.88 km). Fresh tenders will be floated in multiple packages to expedite construction, with work orders expected to be awarded by December for Corridor 2 and early next year for Corridor 4. Officials emphasised that this approach ensures continuity of work while addressing legal complexities arising from prior contract terminations. Originally slated for completion within 40 months from June 2020, the 149-km BSRP has faced repeated delays. Coordination challenges between Karnataka state agencies and Indian Railways, along with contractual disputes, have hindered progress. Physical work remains at just 18.5% completion, highlighting the pressing need for effective project management and accelerated execution.
The previous contractor, L&T, had terminated its engagement on both corridors and filed claims amounting to Rs 505 crore. According to legal notices, only fragmented stretches of the workfront were made available despite 22 months of project initiation. K-RIDE has contested claims and continues to navigate arbitration proceedings while moving forward with fresh tenders. To enhance efficiency, Corridor 2 will be divided into three packages: Chikkabanavara–Yeshwantpur, Yeshwantpur–Hebbal, and Hebbal–Benniganahalli. Corridor 4 work will commence once 80% of land acquisition is completed. Officials stress that tendering in packages is aimed at expediting construction while ensuring cost-effective and quality outcomes.
Meanwhile, progress is also reported in rolling stock procurement, with rail authorities granting in-principle approval for 50% equity in acquiring 306 metro-like coaches, valued at Rs 4,270 crore. This integration with modern metro-style rolling stock is expected to enhance capacity, operational efficiency, and commuter convenience, complementing existing Namma Metro services. Experts note that the renewed tendering strategy represents a pragmatic approach to reviving stalled infrastructure projects, reducing dependency on protracted legal battles while aligning with urban transit needs. As Bengaluru grapples with rising population density and increasing commuter demand, the suburban rail project remains pivotal for sustainable mobility, reduced road congestion, and lower urban carbon emissions.
With structured tendering, phased construction, and modern rolling stock, the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project could soon emerge as a critical backbone of the city’s integrated public transport network, supporting environmentally responsible urban mobility and equitable transit access.
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