High-speed rail link between Bangalore, Belgaum

BANGALORE: The travel time between south and north Karnataka for thousands of rail commuters might be drastically reduced, as the railways is mulling over developing a high-speed rail corridor between Bangalore and Belgaum on a Public Private Partnership basis.Karwar MP Ananth Kumar Hegde said, “Union Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi has agreed to consider our proposal to lay a high-speed corridor between Bangalore and Belgaum.If this project materialises the travel time from Bangalore to Belgaum would be reduced to five to six hours.The Railway Minister has assured us that he would discuss the possibility of undertaking this project PPP mode as it will enable the railways to complete the project very soon.” According to Hegde the railway minister is likely to discuss the issue with the State Government when he visits the city on September 20.According to the railway officials once the railway ministry agrees to undertake the project, a survey would be conducted to asses the project, before it can be approved by the railway board.The project would be handed over to Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) if it is approved.The RVNL will have to get a feasibility study conducted through independent private consultants before issuing tenders.Therefore, it might take years before the project is implemented.The RVNL Chief Project Manager, Alok Tiwari said, “The project was first mooted some years ago and it can be undertaken only if we find a private investor or if the State Government offers to invest in the project.” At present, it takes around 14 hours to travel to Belgaum from Bangalore.