Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced plans to introduce the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail service to connect Bengaluru with Mysore and Tumkur. The announcement was made during his visit to Bengaluru to inspect the redevelopment of Bengaluru Cantonment railway station.
The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, previously known as Vande Bharat Metro, is a short-distance service that operates within 100-250 km. Currently, the semi-high-speed rail operates between Ahmedabad and Bhuj. Vaishnaw highlighted that the service is ideal for cities like Bengaluru and Mysore, which are 135 km apart, and Bengaluru and Tumkur, which are 70 km away.
He emphasized that Bengaluru’s strategic position as a hub for surrounding cities like Mysore and Tumkur makes it perfect for rapid rail services. Vaishnaw noted, ‘The success of the Ahmedabad-Bhuj line shows the potential for further expansion after a year of operations between these cities.’
While K-RIDE proposed extending the Bengaluru suburban railway to cities like Mysore, Tumkur, and Kolar, the Railway Board declined, stating current efforts, including the introduction of Vande Bharat Metro trains, are sufficient to enhance suburban travel.
In addition, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Bengaluru’s Rs 23,000 crore circular railway network will be completed by December, aiming to decongest the city’s railway system. The Kempegowda International Airport halt station will also be moved closer to airport departures to improve passenger convenience.
