Bengaluru to Get New Devanahalli Railway Terminal to Ease Station Congestion
Bengaluru’s already strained railway stations, the Minister of State (MoS) for Railways, V Somanna, recently announced plans to build a new terminal at the Devanahalli Railway Station. The terminal is part of a broader push to modernise the city’s transport infrastructure, which also includes significant upgrades to other key stations like Hoodi Halt, Whitefield, and Carmelaram.
This initiative comes at a time when Bengaluru’s rail network is grappling with increased passenger traffic, exacerbating delays and overcrowding at major stations. Somanna’s announcement signals a commitment to improving infrastructure in the city, making it more efficient for commuters and addressing growing urban mobility needs.
As part of the ongoing upgrades, Rs 1,200 crore worth of development work is currently underway at the KSR Bengaluru Railway Station. The redevelopment is being executed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, which aims to bring in both government funding and private sector expertise to revamp the station’s facilities. In addition to the Devanahalli terminal, plans include the addition of two new platforms at KSR Bengaluru, with an estimated budget of Rs 180 crore for their construction. The expansion will accommodate the city’s rising rail traffic, improving the overall passenger experience and reducing delays. This is a critical step towards ensuring that Bengaluru’s railway system can handle future growth and demand efficiently.
Beyond station upgrades, Bengaluru is also witnessing a transformation of its wider railway infrastructure. The city’s circular railway network, a major project aimed at easing congestion and improving connectivity, is progressing. Once completed, the 280 km circular railway will connect key parts of the city, providing a faster, more convenient alternative to road travel. Furthermore, two key suburban rail corridors are set to be completed by March 2027. The Benniganahalli to Chikkabanavara (25 km) and Heelalige to Rajanukunte (46.8 km) corridors are expected to serve growing demand for suburban transport, making it easier for commuters to travel between these vital areas. The Rail Infrastructure Development Company (Karnataka) Ltd (KRIDE) and the Indian Railways are working together to ensure these projects meet their deadlines, which will be a crucial step in reducing the pressure on Bengaluru’s overcrowded roads.
Another major development underway is the quadrupling of the railway line between Bengaluru Cantonment and Whitefield. This project is part of a broader effort to improve connectivity between these two key parts of the city. With rapid urbanisation and the increasing population, enhancing transport links between such critical areas is essential to ensuring smooth travel for residents and businesses alike. During his inspection of the ongoing infrastructure projects, Minister Somanna noted the importance of addressing rainwater drainage challenges. Bengaluru’s unpredictable weather patterns often lead to flooding, which disrupts transport and causes significant delays. As a result, officials are placing a strong focus on improving drainage systems, ensuring that these infrastructure projects are built with resilience against flooding.
Additionally, the development efforts will also see the construction and improvement of several Road Over Bridges (ROBs), Road Under Bridges (RUBs), underpasses, and water vents. These upgrades aim to ease traffic congestion and improve water flow in the region, which will help mitigate the effects of heavy rainfall. Officials have made it clear that these infrastructure developments are not just about alleviating immediate challenges but also preparing the city for its future growth. By improving the rail network and addressing the city’s chronic traffic and water management issues, Bengaluru is on the path to becoming a more connected and efficient metropolis. As these projects progress, local residents are hopeful that the improvements will bring tangible benefits, reducing travel times, easing daily commutes, and making Bengaluru a more commuter-friendly city.
