Bengaluru, August 10, 2025 –Highlighting the central government’s commitment to enhancing railway infrastructure in Karnataka, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed a dramatic increase in funding and ongoing projects.
Speaking at an event marking the launch of the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project, Vaishnaw emphasized the transformative investments aimed at modernizing the state’s rail network, improving connectivity, and ensuring passenger safety.
The minister’s remarks come amid a broader push by Indian Railways to expand and upgrade facilities across the country, with Karnataka emerging as a key beneficiary.
“We have increased the allocation for railway development in Karnataka very significantly… Now the allocation is nine times 7564 crore, which is huge increase. And right now our investment in railway network in Karnataka is of the order of 54,000 crore rupees. 61 stations are getting completely rebuilt.
“Totally rebuilt under the Amrit Bharat station program. 123 flyovers and underpasses are getting built,” Vaishnaw stated.
Union Railways Minister @AshwiniVaishnaw says,
"We have increased the allocation for railway development in Karnataka very significantly…
Now the allocation is nine times 7564 crore, which is huge increase. And right now our investment in railway network in Karnataka is of… pic.twitter.com/hfX2TjRrNW
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) August 10, 2025
Historic Ninefold Budget Hike Since 2014
The annual budget allocation for Karnataka’s railways has seen an extraordinary ninefold increase compared to the average during 2009-2014.
Back then, the average outlay stood at just ₹835 crore annually.
For the fiscal year 2025-26, this has surged to ₹7,564 crore, marking a marginal rise from ₹7,559 crore in 2024-25 but a monumental leap overall.
This enhanced funding is set to accelerate track expansions, electrification, and new train introductions, positioning Karnataka as a hub for rail innovation.
₹54,000 Crore Investment Pipeline Fuels Growth
Vaishnaw highlighted that the total ongoing investment in Karnataka’s railway network now exceeds ₹54,000 crore.
This massive capital infusion has already yielded tangible results, including the laying of 1,652 km of new rail tracks since 2014.
Electrification efforts are also advancing rapidly, with substantial portions of the network now powered sustainably, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
Key projects under this pipeline include the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project, which promises to revolutionize urban commuting in the state capital.
Additionally, plans for a dedicated rail link to Kempegowda International Airport involve a 7.9-km line, with 6.25 km elevated and 1.65 km underground, enhancing accessibility for millions of travelers.
61 Stations Rebuilt Under Amrit Bharat Scheme
A cornerstone of the development is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, under which 61 stations in Karnataka are undergoing complete redevelopment.
This initiative, backed by an investment of ₹1,981 crore, aims to transform these stations into world-class facilities with modern amenities, improved passenger flow, and enhanced security.
The upgrades include better lighting, escalators, Wi-Fi, and eco-friendly designs, aligning with the government’s vision for ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).
123 Flyovers and Underpasses for Safer Journeys
To address safety concerns and reduce level crossing accidents, 123 flyovers and underpasses are currently under construction across Karnataka’s rail network.
These infrastructure additions are part of a nationwide effort, where Indian Railways has already built hundreds of such structures.
In Karnataka alone, this will eliminate bottlenecks, minimize delays, and save lives by separating road and rail traffic.
Broader Impact and Future Outlook
Vaishnaw’s announcements reflect a consistent upward trend in railway funding for Karnataka, contributing to national goals of affordable and efficient transportation. Indian Railways serves over 720 crore passengers annually, providing economical travel options amid rising demands.
However, challenges like delays in land acquisition— with 3,312 hectares still pending—could impact timelines for some projects.
