Bengaluru, February 8: Karnataka’s Infrastructure Development Minister, M.B. Patil, met with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to request approval for several crucial rail projects in the state. Patil proposed the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express between Bengaluru and Vijayapura, the launch of a high-speed rail corridor between Bengaluru and Mumbai, and the initiation of a daily special train service on the Bengaluru-Vijayapura route.
During the inauguration of an electronics manufacturing unit at a high-tech hardware park, Minister Patil presented his written proposals to Minister Vaishnaw. The Railway Minister assured him that all proposals would be considered positively.
Patil emphasized that Bengaluru is the country’s tech capital, while Mumbai is regarded as the financial capital. Therefore, it is essential to connect these two major cities with a fast, modern, and efficient transportation system. He urged for the announced high-speed rail corridor between Mumbai and Pune to be extended to Bengaluru, to which the Railway Minister responded favorably.
Regarding travel between Bengaluru and Vijayapura, Patil noted that the distance is approximately 530 kilometers. Currently, the journey takes 15 to 16 hours by existing trains. He suggested reducing this travel time to around 10 hours by minimizing stops between Bengaluru and Hubballi and operating trains via the Hubballi and Gadag bypass. He also requested the introduction of the Vande Bharat Express on this route.
Additionally, Minister Patil requested the establishment of a daily special train service on the Bengaluru-Vijayapura route. He stated that the proposed rail services would significantly benefit several districts in central and northern Karnataka socially, industrially, and economically. According to Patil, Minister Vaishnaw agreed to all three of his requests and showed a positive attitude. Senior railway officials, including Ajay Sharma, General Manager of South Western Railway, were also present at the meeting.
Earlier, while addressing the inauguration of the electronics manufacturing unit, Minister Patil stated that this new plant strengthens India’s capacity to design, manufacture, and supply high-quality electronics for mission-critical applications. He mentioned that the unit is designed to meet the needs of critical sectors such as defense, aerospace, and automotive electronics, where quality and reliability are paramount.
The minister also noted that the Karnataka government is investing over ₹4,000 crore to ensure a reliable water supply from the Cauvery River to industrial areas around Bengaluru. Furthermore, continuous investments are being made in roads, electricity, and logistics to provide long-term reliable facilities for industries in the state.
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