BENGALURU, 10 Jun 2025 — Central MP P. C. Mohan has urged the Railways to conduct feasibility studies on establishing Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) networks connecting Bengaluru with its satellite towns: Mysuru, Mandya, Ramanagara, Tumakuru, and Kolar.
What is Proposed
- RRTS corridors are envisioned to provide semi‑high‑speed rail service, offering fewer stops and speeds up to 160 km/h, nearly three times faster than typical metro systems.
- The corridors under consideration include:
- Bengaluru–Kolar
- Bengaluru–Mysuru
- Bengaluru–Tumakuru
- Potential extension towards Hosur and Krishnagiri
Why It Matters
- Mysuru is projected to grow to 3.5 million residents by 2031, with booming industrial and tourism sectors.
- Tumakuru is already an industrial hub, while Kolar is pivoting from mining to logistics and manufacturing.
- Faster, reliable connectivity could ease congestion in Bengaluru by enabling satellite towns to serve as polycentric growth centers, reducing pressure on the metropolis.
Backed by NCRTC
The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC)—already operating the Delhi–Meerut RRTS using Namo Bharat trains—has offered to draft Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for these corridors. Officials are also inviting Karnataka leaders to visit their operational stretch in Delhi-NCR.
The NCRTC proposes a funding model similar to Delhi–Meerut’s, with 60% from multilateral agencies and 20% each from the Central and State governments.
Complementing Metro and Suburban Plans
- The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) is concurrently studying Namma Metro extensions toward Tumakuru (∼59 km corridor costing ₹18,670–20,650 crore), Attibele, Jigani, and Devanahalli.
- Additionally, South Western Railway is advancing the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project, with four corridors (Mallige, Kanaka, Sampige, Parijaata), partially opening by late 2026–2027.
Stakeholder Response
While political figures like Tejasvi Surya argue metro should focus on city limits, supporters of RRTS contend that regional rail is more suitable for intercity travel. The multi-modal approach could integrate RRTS, metro, and suburban rail to shape a more sustainable regional transit ecosystem.
What’s Next
- The Railways are expected to initiate RRTS feasibility studies for the named corridors.
- The Karnataka government is currently evaluating the NCRTC proposal and may consider visiting Delhi’s RRTS network.
- Ongoing progress will hinge on securing funding commitments, completing DPRs, and aligning interests among central, state, and private stakeholders.
This push for RRTS corridors marks a strategic effort to redefine Bengaluru’s regional mobility, aiming to bolster economic growth in satellite towns while alleviating urban congestion.
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