South Western Railway (SWR) has recently issued a call for consultancy services for the proposed mega coach terminal at Yelahanka in Bengaluru. The project is planned near the Rail Wheel Factory, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has assured that the terminal's construction will not impact the factory's operations.
Project Details and Cost
The mega terminal, estimated to cost Rs 5,745 crore, will feature a multi-level coach terminal designed to address the city's growing transportation needs. Originally proposed at Devanahalli, the location was later shifted to Yelahanka due to logistical advantages and its proximity to the city.
Minister's Assurance on Rail Wheel Factory
Addressing concerns, Vaishnaw stated, "Given the city's growing transportation needs, we are developing a mega terminal at Yelahanka. The Rail Wheel Factory will remain unchanged, with absolutely no alteration to its layout." This clarification comes amid speculations that the terminal might affect the factory's operations.
Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project Progress
The 148-km Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project, sanctioned in June 2020 with a six-year deadline, has faced criticism for delays. Vaishnaw noted that the project has begun to gather pace after a technical expert was appointed to head Karnataka Rail Infrastructure Development Company (KRIDE), the executing agency. He also mentioned that the suburban rail link to Kempegowda International Airport will be taken up shortly.
Majestic-Devanahalli Corridor
Regarding the 41-km Majestic-Devanahalli corridor, which includes the airport link, survey and geotechnical works have been completed, while land acquisition is in progress, according to the minister.
