Hubli: The Union Budget has unveiled a significant allocation of ₹6,493.87 crore for South Western Railway (SWR), marking a substantial investment in railway infrastructure development in the region. A key focus of the budget is the construction of new lines, with a dedicated allocation of ₹1,448.89 crore.
Among the new lines, the Hubli-Ankola route has received a crucial boost of ₹20 crore. This development is expected to enhance connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.
The budget also emphasises the importance of track upgradation, with ₹1,241 crore earmarked for doubling railway tracks. This investment will improve train speeds, reduce travel time, and enhance overall railway efficiency.
Passenger amenities are also a priority, as reflected in the allocation of ₹961.22 crore for their development. The ambitious Amrita Bharat Yojana aims to transform 51 stations, providing enhanced facilities and improved passenger experiences.
Several other railway projects have received substantial funding. New railway lines such as Hassan-Bangalore (via Shravanabelagola), Hubli-Ankola, and Belgaum-Dharwad (via Kittur) have each been allocated ₹20 crore. The Gadag (Talakal)-Wadi route has secured ₹200 crore, while Tumkur-Davangere (via Chitradurga), Bagalkote-Kudachi, Gadag-Yalavigi, and Shimoga-Shikaripur-Ranebennur routes have each received ₹150 crore. The Kadur-Chikkamagaluru-Hassan line has been allocated ₹70 crore, and the Tumkur-Rayadurga (via Kalyandurga) route has secured ₹250 crore. Additionally, the Marikuppam-Kuppam and Malaguru-Palasamudram lines have received ₹60 crore and ₹21 crore respectively, while the Munirabad-Mahabubnagar route has been allocated ₹100 crore.
These substantial investments in railway infrastructure are expected to have a transformative impact on the region, improving connectivity, boosting economic growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.