Bengaluru: The New High-Speed Rail Epicenter

Bengaluru is set to gain two high-speed rail corridors connecting the city with Chennai and Hyderabad, with trains capable of reaching speeds of up to 350 kmph.

Announced in the Union Budget, the Bengaluru–Chennai and Bengaluru–Hyderabad links are part of seven proposed high-speed rail corridors aimed at delivering faster, greener, and more efficient connectivity between major Indian cities. The corridors are designed for an average operating speed of 250 kmph, with a maximum operational speed of 320 kmph, offering a compelling alternative to road and air travel.

Last year, RITES was entrusted by South Central Railway (SCR) with conducting the final location survey for the Hyderabad–Bengaluru high-speed rail corridor. The proposed 626-km alignment is expected to reduce travel time between the two cities to approximately two hours and is likely to broadly follow the existing rail route. Further details will be available once the detailed project report (DPR) is finalised.

Commenting on the development, Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna said, “With Bengaluru set to be connected by two proposed corridors, the new rail projects will transform inter-city travel and significantly benefit Karnataka.”

The high-speed rail initiatives are expected to substantially enhance regional connectivity and provide a major boost to transport infrastructure in southern India.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.