Bengaluru’s ambitious Suburban Rail Project (BSRP) is steadily progressing, poised to revolutionize the city’s transportation landscape. However, this transformation comes at a cost, with numerous structures slated for demolition to make way for the sprawling rail network. A recent report prepared for the project sheds light on the extensive impact, revealing that nearly 650 structures, encompassing residential, commercial, and other properties, are earmarked for complete or partial demolition across all four corridors of the 148-km rail network.
According to the Social Impact Assessment and Resettlement Policy Framework report, the highest concentration of affected structures, totaling 289, is situated along Corridor-2, stretching from Byappanahalli to Chikkabanavara. Construction activities along this corridor are already underway, overseen by the Rail Infrastructure Development Company (Karnataka) Limited (KRIDE). Corridor-4, linking Heelalige to Rajankunte, closely follows with 140 structures slated for demolition. Corridor-3, from Kengeri to Whitefield, and Corridor-1, connecting Majestic to Devanahalli, will witness the demolition of 135 and 85 structures, respectively.
The execution of the project necessitates the permanent acquisition of approximately 233 hectares of land, encompassing railway land, Karnataka government-owned land, forest land, and private property, to accommodate stations, depots, and running corridor sections. The report outlines that the width of the double track corridor will vary based on alignment gradient and curvature, with a minimum width of 16.5 meters. Notably, it was previously agreed that railway land would be transferred to KRIDE for a nominal fee of Re 1 per acre.
KRIDE, tasked with the construction of 69 stations across the four corridors, including those on quadrupling projects and at the Kempegowda International Airport campus, is spearheading the project. Additionally, plans are in place for rail depots in Devanahalli and Soladevanahalli, with interchange stations strategically located.
One of the areas significantly impacted by the project is Mathikere, home to a slum known as MR Jayaram Colony sprawled over 1 acre. The elevated alignment of Corridor-2 is slated to pass over the fringes of this slum, affecting 143 structures and 650 residents. The report underscores that while some residents possess higher education qualifications, many are construction workers with limited literacy skills. While the demolition of all houses may not be necessary, residents will be temporarily relocated during the construction of viaduct sections to mitigate risks.
In response to the challenges posed by the project’s impact on the slum, the revised alignment of Corridor-2 aims to minimize disruption, with pillar foundations positioned on the road, affecting a total of 32 properties, including private buildings and encroachments.
The BSRP holds the promise of enhanced connectivity and mobility for Bengaluru residents, heralding a new era of urban transportation. However, it also underscores the intricate interplay between infrastructure development and its social ramifications, particularly concerning displacement and resettlement. As the project progresses, stakeholders must navigate these challenges with sensitivity and foresight to ensure equitable outcomes for all affected communities.
