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Which City To Get India's Largest Circular Railway, Spanning 287 kilometers?
A)
Bengaluru
B)
Hyderabad
C)
Chennai
D)
Lucknow

Correct Answer :   Bengaluru


Bengaluru, the bustling IT hub of India, is poised to witness a groundbreaking development in its transportation infrastructure with the announcement of a 287-km circular railway. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw disclosed this ambitious project during a press conference after a comprehensive review of railway projects in Bengaluru.


Vision for the Future: Complete Connectivity Over Seven Paths :

The circular railway seeks to link key towns around Bengaluru, forming India’s most extensive network. It transcends current needs, envisioning a transportation solution for the next 40-50 years. In tandem with the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project (BSRP), it emerges as the ultimate response to the city’s evolving transport demands.


Unprecedented Funding for Feasibility and Alignment Study :

Recognizing the extensive deliberations on Bengaluru’s circular railway, Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has approved Rs 7 crore for a feasibility and alignment study. This pivotal initiative is essential for the project’s success and meeting the city’s evolving needs. If implemented, the circular railway, exceeding Chennai’s 235.5-km network, could emerge as India’s largest suburban railway.


Potential Timeline: A Reality in the Next Five Years?

While the minister did not specify a timeline, reliable sources within the South Western Railway (SWR) suggest that the circular railway might become a reality within the next five years if everything proceeds smoothly. The envisioned circular railway is designed to follow a hub-and-spoke model, seamlessly integrating the city’s core with seven spokes located approximately 20-25 km away.


Comparing the Concept: Railways’ Version of the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) :

In essence, the circular railway can be seen as the railways’ version of the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR). Minister Vaishnaw provided insight into the proposed route, mentioning a Nidavanda-Nidavanda line via Doddaballapur, Devanahalli, Malur, Heelalige, Hejjala, and Solur. The rail-based system is envisioned to enhance public transportation, similar to successful models in other global cities like Tokyo, London, Delhi, or Bengaluru.


Feasibility Study and Future Steps :

The feasibility and alignment study, set to be conducted by the SWR’s Construction Organisation, is a crucial initial step. Tenders for the study are expected to be called soon, with the report anticipated by September 2024. Subsequently, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is likely to be initiated in 2025, potentially taking a year to complete. If all goes according to plan, construction of 80-90 km of the circular railway could be achieved annually. The railway network will consist of at least two tracks and be fully electrified.

Published On : November 29, 2023
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