To ease congestion, South Western Railway notifies Whitefield-Bangarpet quadrupling project

Bengaluru: Ending years of anticipation, South Western Railway (SWR) formally notified the quadrupling of 42-km Bengaluru–Bangarpet rail stretch, a major infrastructure push aimed at easing congestion on one of the region's busiest corridors.The Rs 1,481-crore project will add two new lines to the existing double track, effectively doubling the route's capacity and enabling smoother movement of both passenger and freight trains. Railway officials said the expansion is expected to significantly reduce delays caused by traffic bottlenecks, where trains are often held up waiting for clearance on the crowded line. Although initial surveys began in 2022, the detailed project report (DPR) was submitted to the railway board only in Nov 2025 — missing earlier deadlines. To prevent further delays, the ministry of railways has now designated it as a special railway project, which allows for faster land acquisition and quicker clearances.Relief for commutersThe project is expected to benefit thousands of daily commuters travelling from satellite towns such as Devangonthi, Malur and Tekal, where they frequently face long halts due to track congestion. By introducing dedicated lines, the upgrade will also enhance long-distance connectivity between Bengaluru and Chennai, reducing crossing delays and improving punctuality. Key trains operating on this route — including MGR Chennai Central–Mysuru Vande Bharat Express, Shatabdi Express and Kaveri Express — are likely to see more reliable schedules and improved turnaround times.