The Karnataka rail network is experiencing a phase of rapid expansion and infrastructure strengthening, with the state government allocating ₹7,748 crore for railway projects and around ₹52,950 crore worth of works already in progress, Union Minister V. Somanna said on Wednesday.
Addressing a press interaction in Bengaluru, the minister highlighted that the substantial investment reflects a concerted effort to enhance rail connectivity within the state, improve passenger amenities, and support freight mobility across key corridors. The expansion efforts aim to strengthen the existing rail infrastructure and ensure better integration with national railway networks.
Mr. Somanna said that rail projects under execution include track doubling, gauge conversion, new line constructions, station redevelopment, and upgrades to signalling and safety systems. These initiatives are expected to improve travel times, boost operational efficiency, and expand the reach of rail services to underserved areas.
The minister noted that Karnataka’s strategic location as a key link between southern and western regions of India makes rail development a critical component of the state’s broader economic and logistics growth plans. Enhanced rail connectivity is also expected to bolster industrial activity, tourism and commerce across the region.
Officials said priority has been given to projects that strengthen regional accessibility while catering to growing passenger and freight demand. Among the ongoing works are major rail corridors that aim to decongest existing routes, facilitate smoother movement of goods, and provide improved mobility for commuters in both urban and rural parts of the state.
The ₹7,748 crore allocation for the current phase of development is part of a larger multi-year investment strategy, with funds earmarked for project execution, land acquisition, technology integration and safety enhancements. Authorities indicated that timely resource mobilisation and coordinated planning between state and central agencies have accelerated project implementation.
Infrastructure analysts welcomed the focus on rail expansion in Karnataka, saying that improved railway links can play a significant role in enhancing connectivity within the state and with neighbouring regions. They added that the scale of ongoing projects demonstrates confidence in the rail sector’s capacity to support economic growth and regional development.
With projects underway across various districts, the expansion of the rail network is expected to yield benefits in improved logistics efficiency, better passenger experience, and broader inclusion of smaller towns and growth centres into the mainstream rail grid.
