In a significant push to strengthen rail infrastructure in Karnataka, the Railway Board has approved Final Location Surveys (FLS) for two important new railway lines under the South Western Railway (SWR) zone. The first proposed line spans 162 km between Almatti and Yadgir, with a sanctioned survey cost of ₹4.05 crore. The second survey, costing ₹1.825 crore, will cover a 73 km stretch between Bhadravathi and Chikjajur via Channagiri. Together, these surveys amount to a total estimated cost of ₹5.875 crore. This initiative marks the crucial first step in the planning and development of key railway projects aimed at enhancing connectivity across the state.
The proposed Almatti–Yadgir line is strategically significant as it aims to enhance connectivity between northern Karnataka and major economic corridors. Almatti, known for its dam and hydroelectric power generation, plays a key role in the region’s agriculture and energy sectors, while Yadgir serves as a crucial junction in the Hyderabad–Mumbai rail corridor. Improved rail connectivity between these points will boost regional trade, mobility, and access to resources. Similarly, the Bhadravathi–Chikjajur line will strengthen intra-state connectivity in central Karnataka. Bhadravathi, an industrial town housing steel and paper industries, will benefit from direct access to Chikjajur, a major railway junction that connects several parts of Karnataka. This line is expected to support freight movement, industrial growth, and better passenger connectivity in the region.
