Rail link between city and Devanahalli airport planned

Rail link between city and Devanahalli airport planned

The Hindu

# Three originating points for train suggested
# Plan is for air passengers to have check-in facility at the station itself
# Coaches of train will conform to international standards

BANGALORE: It may or may not run the 35 km to the Devanahalli international airport in as many minutes but it may be faster than travelling by road.

South Western Railway has completed a preliminary feasibility study for a high-speed rail link between the city and the airport. Three originating points have been suggested: the Cantonment, Byappanahalli or Bangalore East stations and for now Cantonment station is likely to be the choice. In terms of logistics, it is centrally located, can accommodate a separate terminal as planned and has adequate parking space.

Plans are for air passengers to have check-in facility at the railway station itself, saving time at the other end. Such facilities are available at some of the airports abroad. Passengers may even be able to check in their baggage to be taken to the aircraft, after being examined by the security staff.

The detailed project report for the rail link to Devanahalli is reported to have been prepared by RITES and as a follow-up the Railways has mooted the financing package be shared by the Infrastructure Department, the Railways and a third party. The cost details are being worked out.

The departure of the trains from both ends will be in time with the flight departures and arrivals at the airport. This will mean less waiting time for those on the express train. The coaches of the train will be of deluxe type as in the Rajdhani express trains and conform to international standards. The trains will start from Cantonment Station, pass through Byappanahalli and terminate right inside the terminal buildings where there is likely to be a specially designed terminal for the trains. There will be a double line, partly running parallel to existing tracks.

Meanwhile, work is to begin soon on the "trumpet" interchange and flyover close to the airport on the national highway.

Here, cars and coaches bound for the international airport will take a deviation and highway traffic proceed separately. There will be a similar loop for cars from the airport going to the city or northwards.