Bengaluru Railway Division Goes Digital & Passenger-Centric: Record Revenues, Faster Trains and Smart Innovations Mark FY 2025–26
Bengaluru: In a significant push towards modernisation and passenger-centric services, the Bengaluru Railway Division has recorded all-round growth in infrastructure, revenue, speed upgrades and digital innovation during the financial year 2025–26.
Addressing a press conference, Divisional Railway Manager Ashutosh Kumar Singh highlighted that the division is not just expanding physically, but is also transforming into a technology-driven, passenger-friendly railway network.
One of the biggest highlights of the year has been the rapid infrastructure expansion. Key projects including doubling and electrification between Belandur Road–Carmelaram (3.5 km) and Makkajipalli–Dharmavaram (28.6 km) have been completed. A new 24 km railway line connecting Tumkur, Urukere and Thimmarajanahalli has also been commissioned, along with the crucial 3rd and 4th lines between Bengaluru Cantonment and Baiyyappanahalli.
In terms of speed and efficiency, train speeds have been significantly enhanced. The Yelahanka–Dharmavaram section now supports speeds up to 130 kmph, while key stretches like Chikkaballapur–Chintamani and Baiyyappanahalli–Omalur have been upgraded to 110 kmph. Overall, speeds of 106 trains have been improved, reducing travel time across routes.
Safety has also seen a major boost, with 8 level crossings eliminated through the construction of 4 Road Over Bridges and 10 Road Under Bridges, ensuring smoother and safer movement for both road users and trains.
The division has expanded connectivity with the introduction of premium services like Vande Bharat trains to Belagavi and Ernakulam, along with new express trains to Gwalior, Balurghat and Radhikapur. Additionally, 18 services have been extended to improve regional connectivity.
What sets this year apart is the strong focus on digital transformation and passenger experience. Bengaluru Division became the first in Indian Railways to pilot the Mobile UTS Sahayak system, simplifying ticketing at KSR Bengaluru station. The Namma Nakshe app has been rolled out across 14 major stations, helping passengers navigate stations seamlessly.
A QR-based complaint system under RailMadad has been fully implemented in catering services, ensuring real-time grievance redressal. This has contributed to an 18% reduction in passenger complaints compared to the previous year, supported by a 24/7 RailMadad war-room monitoring system.
In a first for South Western Railway, a Public-Private Partnership cargo terminal under the Gati Shakti initiative has been awarded at Hanakere to Ultratech Cement, marking a major step towards boosting freight logistics.
Financially, the division has delivered record-breaking performance across all segments. Passenger revenue touched an all-time high of ₹2420.55 crore, while goods revenue reached ₹351.07 crore. Ticket checking revenue, parcel earnings, and catering income also recorded new highs, reflecting improved operational efficiency.
Freight operations too have grown steadily, with 2.13 million tonnes of loading, record rake handling, and strong growth in container and petroleum cargo movement.
Beyond operations, the division has also made social impact strides. Under initiatives like “Nanhe Farishtey,” 407 children were rescued and reunited with families, while vulnerable adults were assisted under the “Dignity” initiative. Anti-touting drives led to 144 arrests, reinforcing enforcement efforts.
Environmental and cost efficiency measures have also paid off, with 14 trains converted from diesel to electric traction, saving ₹43.73 crore annually.
Adding to passenger comfort, a third rail coach restaurant is set to be commissioned at KSR Bengaluru station, further enhancing the travel experience.
Overall, Bengaluru Railway Division’s performance reflects a shift beyond traditional rail operations—towards a smarter, safer, and more passenger-focused railway ecosystem, positioning it as one of the most progressive divisions in Indian Railways.
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