The Bengaluru–Hyderabad bullet train corridor promises faster travel and improved regional connectivity significantly
BENGALURU
The proposed Bengaluru–Hyderabad bullet train project is gaining momentum, with the Centre accelerating work related to surveys, alignment planning and land acquisition for the high-speed rail corridor. Once completed, the project is expected to reduce travel time between the two cities to nearly two hours.
According to officials, the proposed corridor will span around 626 km and will largely run on elevated tracks along a new alignment separate from the existing railway network. The high-speed line is being designed for a maximum speed of 350 kmph, while trains are expected to operate at around 320 kmph.
Currently, train journeys between Bengaluru and Hyderabad take between eight and 19 hours depending on the service. Even premium services such as the Vande Bharat Express require more than eight hours for the trip. While air travel is faster, passengers still spend considerable time on airport transfers, security checks and boarding procedures. Officials believe the bullet train corridor could provide a more efficient city-to-city travel option for passengers.
Sources said final location surveys are presently being conducted by RITES Limited and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is likely to be submitted soon. The Union Government has also directed the Karnataka government to appoint a nodal officer to expedite land acquisition and coordination with departments.
In Karnataka, the corridor is expected to include stations at Alipura in Gauribidanur taluk, Devanahalli near Kempegowda International Airport and Kodihalli in Bengaluru Rural district. Across the entire route, nearly 12 stations are proposed, with key stops likely in Mahbubnagar, Kurnool, Anantapur and Hindupur before entering Karnataka.
The Karnataka Cabinet has already extended in-principle support to the project. State ministers have assured cooperation for clearances and infrastructure requirements.
Officials believe the bullet train corridor could significantly transform connectivity between Bengaluru and Hyderabad, two of South India’s leading technology, business and innovation hubs. The project is also expected to boost economic activity, improve regional mobility and strengthen intercity transportation infrastructure in the long term.
