News Brief
Deputy CM DK Shivakumar Pushes For Rapid Rail Transit To Recast Bengaluru—Mysuru, Kolar, Tumakuru Amongst Places To Get Connected
Rapid Rail Transit System. (Via Twitter).
Karnataka Govt Pitches For 5 RRTS Corridors Connecting Bengaluru-Here's
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has outlined a Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) plan for Bengaluru, modelled on the Delhi–Meerut “Namo Bharat” service in a recent letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This high-speed, dedicated-track commuter network is intended to slash travel times between Bengaluru and surrounding towns, reduce road congestion, and provide a cleaner, faster alternative to existing modes of transport.
The plan details five corridors:
Bengaluru–Bidadi–Mysuru: 145 km in 102 minutes
Bengaluru–Harohalli–Kanakapura: 60 km in 42 minutes
Bengaluru–Nelamangala–Tumakuru: 60 km in 42 minutes
Bengaluru–Hoskote–Kolar: 65 km in 46 minutes
The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) in the past had also put forward a plan for four semi-high-speed “Namo Bharat” routes starting from Bengaluru to strengthen regional links.
These would connect the city to Hoskote and Kolar (65 km), Mysuru (145 km), Tumakuru (60 km), and Hosur via Krishnagiri to Dharmapuri (138 km, extending into Tamil Nadu).
Unlike conventional suburban rail, RRTS corridors operate at higher speeds, have dedicated tracks, and integrate with other urban transit modes, thereby reducing reliance on private vehicles and improving air quality.
The concept has proven successful in the National Capital Region and is being pitched as a model for India’s other rapidly expanding cities.
Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) is part of Shivakumar’s appeal for a central allocation of Rs 1.5 lakh crore to fund a series of priority projects spanning urban tunnels, elevated roads, flyovers, a business corridor, expanded drinking water schemes, stormwater drain roadways.
