Bengaluru will soon have another railway connection to its international airport, as Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the construction of a new rail link. The 7.9 km stretch between Doddajala and KIA will feature three stations, further improving transport options for commuters traveling to and from the airport.
Elevated and Underground Sections
Out of the total 7.9 km stretch, 6.25 km will be elevated, while the remaining 1.65 km will be underground. This hybrid structure is designed to integrate smoothly with existing infrastructure, minimizing disruptions while ensuring efficient transportation.
Additional Rail Options for Bengaluru Airport
With the addition of this railway line, Kempegowda International Airport will soon be connected by three railway lines, apart from Metro and suburban rail services. This expansion aims to accommodate the city’s growing air traffic and provide passengers with diverse and convenient transport options.
Addressing Technical Challenges
Union Minister Vaishnaw highlighted that while implementing this connectivity, certain technical challenges had to be addressed. These included designing a rail flyover to overcome existing constraints. After reviewing the proposed solutions, the government is confident that this new link will significantly ease travel to the airport.
Metro and Suburban Rail Developments
Bengaluru’s Metro network is also expanding, with work on the KR Pura–KIA (Blue Line) currently in progress. Meanwhile, K-RIDE, the agency responsible for the suburban rail project, has yet to finalize tenders for civil work on the Sampige Line, which will further strengthen connectivity to the airport.
Existing KIA Halt Station
Currently, the nearest railway station to KIA is the KIA Halt Station, situated 3.5 km from the terminal. Built by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) at a cost of Rs 3 crore, the station was inaugurated on January 4, 2021. BIAL also provides free shuttle services to bridge the gap between the station and the airport terminal, ensuring convenience for airport employees and passengers alike.
Future of Airport Connectivity
With multiple rail-based transport options in development, Bengaluru is set to enhance its airport accessibility significantly. The new railway line, combined with Metro and suburban rail projects, will provide passengers with a range of choices, ultimately reducing congestion and improving travel efficiency in the city.
