Bengaluru: The Bengaluru railway division recently convened its Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee (DRUCC) meeting to review a wide range of passenger-focused improvements, digital initiatives and infrastructure progress across the division. The meeting was chaired by Additional Divisional Railway Manager (Operations) Parikshit Mohanpuria.

Digital push gains momentum

During the session, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Krishna Chaitanya presented key updates on the division’s ongoing modernisation efforts. He noted that 12.02% of all unreserved tickets issued this financial year (up to October) were purchased through the UTS Mobile App, signalling a steady rise in digital ticketing adoption among passengers.

The division has also expanded its QR-based ticketing network, now operational at 140 unreserved ticketing system (UTS) counters and 55 passenger reservation system (PRS) terminals. Railway officials said this expansion is aimed at easing queues, enabling faster ticket purchases and reducing the dependence on physical counters.

Infrastructure upgrades and capacity expansion

Chaitanya also highlighted that quadrupling and doubling works across key routes are in progress to boost line capacity and improve train punctuality. These large-scale projects form part of the South Western Railway’s long-term strategy to accommodate increasing passenger and freight traffic around Bengaluru — one of the busiest and most congested railway divisions in the country.

New freight traffic boosts revenue

The Bengaluru division reported several additions to its freight portfolio, including consignments of Honda two-wheelers, Toyota cars and TVS electric autorickshaws. These new freight streams have generated revenues ranging from ₹19 lakh to ₹38 lakh per trip, marking a significant boost to the division’s freight earnings.

Officials said the diversification of freight commodities underscores the division’s growing importance as a logistics hub for major automobile manufacturers.

Members raise concerns on amenities

DRUCC members used the platform to flag several issues affecting passengers at various stations. Key concerns included:

  • Installation and maintenance of escalators
  • Availability of buggy (golf cart) services for senior citizens and persons with disabilities
  • Need for expanded platform shelters at smaller stations
  • Requests for increased train services to underserved routes

Railway officials recorded the inputs and assured members that the issues would be addressed in a phased manner based on feasibility, funding and ongoing project priorities.

Conclusion

The DRUCC meeting highlighted the Bengaluru railway division’s continued focus on digital transformation, infrastructure development and enhanced freight operations. With multiple capacity expansion projects underway and steady progress in digital ticketing, officials said they aim to improve passenger convenience and operational efficiency in the coming months.