The Ministry of Railways has announced a major milestone in Karnataka’s rail infrastructure development, with a significant stretch of the Kadur–Chikkamagaluru–Belur new railway line now commissioned.
According to a post shared by the Ministry on X (formerly Twitter), 56 km of the proposed 68 km rail line under the project has been commissioned, marking steady progress on a long-awaited connectivity initiative in the region.
“Kadur-Chikkamagaluru-Belur New Line Project (68 km)
56 Km Rail Line Commissioned
Benefits:
-Strengthens first time Rail connectivity to Chikkamagaluru’s remote terrain.
-Improves access to tourist hub Belur in Hassan district”
Boost to Connectivity in Hilly and Remote Regions
The commissioning of this stretch is expected to significantly improve transportation access to Chikkamagaluru, a region known for its hilly terrain, coffee plantations, and limited rail penetration. The new line provides the district with its first comprehensive rail connection, reducing dependence on road transport.
The project is also expected to support local economies by easing the movement of people and goods, particularly agricultural produce and tourism-related traffic. Improved rail access is seen as a key enabler for faster, safer, and more affordable travel in the region.
Tourism and Economic Impact
The new rail link is set to enhance connectivity to Belur in Hassan district, home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Chennakesava Temple. Better rail access is likely to increase tourist footfall, benefiting local businesses, hospitality services, and allied sectors.
Once the remaining section of the Kadur–Chikkamagaluru–Belur line is completed, the route is expected to further integrate central Karnataka with the state’s broader rail network, supporting regional development and aligning with Indian Railways’ focus on expanding connectivity in underserved areas.
In another major development, South Western Railway has announced the regulation of certain train services owing to a Line Block and Power Block between Hejjala and Kengeri stations. The temporary operational restrictions are being imposed to facilitate essential maintenance and infrastructure-related works on the section.
As per the notification, Train No. 16021, Dr MGR Chennai Central–Ashokapuram Kaveri Express, scheduled to depart from Dr MGR Chennai Central at 21.15 hrs on January 22, 2026, will be regulated by approximately 35 minutes at en route stations.
In a separate instance, the same train service, Train No. 16021 Dr MGR Chennai Central–Ashokapuram Kaveri Express, scheduled to leave Dr MGR Chennai Central at 21.15 hrs on March 5, 2026, will face a longer regulation of about 45 minutes during its journey.