The first proposed line spans 162 km between Almatti and Yadgir, with a sanctioned survey cost of ₹4.05 crore. The second survey is for the 73 km stretch between Bhadravati and Chikjajur via Channagiri, which will cost ₹1.825 crore.
| Photo Credit: Anil Kumar Sastry

The Railway Board has approved Final Location Surveys (FLS) for two new railway lines under the South Western Railway (SWR) zone in Karnataka.

According to a press release issued by Chief Public Relations Officer Manjunath Kanamadi,

The two lines are Almatti-Yadgir and Bhadravati-Chikjajur via Channagiri.

The first proposed line spans 162 km between Almatti and Yadgir, with a sanctioned survey cost of ₹4.05 crore. The second survey is for the 73 km stretch between Bhadravati and Chikjajur via Channagiri, which will cost ₹1.825 crore.

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 is expected to boost regional trade, mobility, and access to resources.

The Bhadravati–Chikjajur line will strengthen intra-State connectivity in central Karnataka. Bhadravati, 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.