In response to a question raised by Rajya Sabha MP Iranna Kadadi, Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw provided an update on the ongoing redevelopment of Belagavi Railway Station and the prospects of introducing new train services to major cities like Chennai and Kolkata.
Station Redevelopment:
Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, several improvement works are in progress at Belagavi station, including:
- Installation of coach indication boards, train indication boards, public announcement system, and clocks – now completed.
- Ongoing works include:
- Construction of a 12-meter foot overbridge
- Installation of lifts and escalators
- Platform shelter improvements
- Upgrades to parking and circulating areas
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme focuses on long-term and phased development of railway stations with a master plan approach. Key features include:
- Better access and circulating areas
- Enhanced waiting halls, toilets, lifts/escalators, platform surfacing, and shelters
- Cleanliness, free Wi-Fi, and passenger information systems
- Kiosks for local products under ‘One Station One Product’
- Executive lounges, business meeting zones, and landscaping
- Multimodal integration and infrastructure for Divyangjans
- Sustainable solutions and even potential for city-centre creation at the station
So far, 1,337 stations, including Belagavi, have been identified under this scheme, with works progressing at a good pace.
Train Services from Belagavi:
Currently, Belagavi Railway Station is served by 50 Mail/Express trains, including the Vande Bharat Express (20669/20670) from Hubballi to Pune via Belagavi, launched on 18th September 2024.
These trains connect Belagavi to major cities such as:
- Mumbai
- Delhi
- Bengaluru
- Ahmedabad
- Mysuru
Regarding new train services to cities like Chennai and Kolkata, the Minister stated that Indian Railways continuously evaluates passenger connectivity needs, based on:
- Traffic demand
- Operational feasibility
- Availability of resources
- Competing priorities
While there is no immediate announcement of new trains to Chennai or Kolkata, the Railways assures that expansion and service improvements are part of an ongoing process.
Put Belgaum station in a zone other than hubli
No not required at all
Belgaum indeed deserves the highest recognition by the Railways !
It’s Time to have a separate Belgaum Division !
It will live upto its name !!
It’s our humble request to our Hon. Railway Minister to immediately start connectivity to Kolkata and Chennai huge no of people’s will be escape from changes facing to travel both the destination .
There is a urgent need of direct train for chennai.
The Train starting from Hubli to Chennai can Start from Belgaum this will help the citizen of Belgaum District to travel to Chennai.
Also a train is required for Kolkata via Miraj/Pune
Retiring rooms and ac lounges are must for all transit passengers.They are always locked and not in use why?