The proposed integration of Konkan Railway with Indian Railways is awaiting approval from four state governments, with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stating that the process cannot move forward without their consent. Meanwhile, preparations are progressing for doubling the railway line connecting Mangaluru and Bengaluru.
Speaking to reporters at Mangaluru International Airport on Thursday night, Vaishnaw explained that the Centre and the governments of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala are stakeholders in Konkan Railway. He added that he had approached the chief ministers of all four states, seeking their approval for the proposed merger. However, no definite timeline has been established for completing the process.
Mangaluru-Bengaluru Railway Doubling
The Railway Minister also confirmed that administrative approval has been granted for conducting a survey and preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for doubling the Mangaluru-Bengaluru railway route. The exercise is currently in progress.
He acknowledged that the project involves considerable engineering challenges, particularly while constructing an additional track through the Western Ghats. The proposed alignment is being redesigned by incorporating lessons from the existing railway line, especially its steep gradients. The objective is to provide a more gradual slope for the second track and minimise operational difficulties.
Vaishnaw also highlighted the technical complexities involved in introducing the Vande Bharat service connecting the coastal region with the state capital. These included modifications to structures along steep ghat sections, electrification-related adjustments and customised train configurations.
Karnataka Railway Investments
Addressing Karnataka Industries Minister M B Patil’s allegations that the state had received unfair treatment in railway project allocations, Vaishnaw rejected the criticism.
He stated that railway infrastructure projects worth approximately Rs 27,000 crore are currently being undertaken in Karnataka. He also pointed to sanctioned bullet train projects, several Vande Bharat and Vande Bharat Sleeper services, and ongoing station redevelopment initiatives as evidence of the state’s infrastructure investments.
The developments highlight the Centre’s ongoing railway expansion plans across Karnataka and the Konkan region.
Source: Metro Rail News
