Shivamogga: Shivamogga MP B Y Raghavendra on Friday said the Union govt has sanctioned funds for the primary surveys of several new railway lines, including a high-priority route connecting Shivamogga to Sringeri via Thirthahalli.Speaking to reporters, he said Shivamogga-Sringeri railway line project is part of a larger strategic vision to link the Malnad region with the coastal area, potentially revolutionising tourism and local commerce. The MP noted the economic feasibility of these routes will be determined once survey reports are submitted.The initiative includes surveys for 4-5 distinct corridors, including a link from Chikkajajur to Bhadravathi, and Shikaripura-Ranebennur lines. Additionally, a 165km line from Talaguppa to Hubballi via Sirsi is under consideration, with its Detailed Project Report (DPR) expected by June 2026. These lines aim to provide railway access to several Malnad taluks, creating a faster transit path for agricultural products between coastal Karnataka and northern Karnataka.Central to these developments is the construction of Koteganguru Railway Terminal near Shivamogga, which is approximately 60% complete, he said.The BJP MP clarified that while there is significant demand for a Vande Bharat Express between Shivamogga and Bengaluru, the service requires specialised maintenance and pit-line facilities currently being built at Koteganguru. Once the terminal is inaugurated — likely by mid-2026 — it will serve as a secondary hub to decongest Shivamogga Town station and facilitate more frequent trains to major cities.Complementing the rail expansion, urban projects such as a new flyover near Freedom Park and track doubling from Birur to Shivamogga are also moving forward to handle the anticipated increase in traffic, he added.
