Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna, during his visit to Belagavi district, outlined key railway developments in Karnataka under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that over 300 Railway Over Bridges (RoBs) are underway across the state, including projects in Hubballi, Dharwad, Belagavi, and Khanapur.
Somanna detailed major works in Belagavi, including the Tilakwadi Gate 380–4th Gate Angol RoB, set for completion by 2026 at a cost of ₹21 crore, and another RoB at LC 382–Second Gate with a budget of ₹32 crore. He added that two more level crossings in the city are under consideration, with technical issues being addressed.
He announced that under the Amrit Bharat scheme, Karnataka’s modernized stations have risen from 61 to 66, with over ₹2,000 crore invested. Stations like Belagavi, Ghataprabha, Raibag, Chikkodi, and Gokak are being upgraded with lifts, escalators, and better facilities for differently-abled passengers.
Speaking on long-pending demands, he said work has begun in Khanapur after decades, and assured that the station would be made high-tech by June 2026. Foundation works worth ₹3 crore for passenger amenities and ₹11 crore for a flyover next to the station were inaugurated.
On railway connectivity, Somanna stated that tenders have been issued for the Belagavi–Dharwad line via Kittur. While Belagavi achieved 100% land acquisition (about 1,200 acres), 40–42 acres remain pending. He urged coordination between state and central governments to resolve the issue quickly, adding that ₹937 crore has been earmarked for this 73 km section.
Highlighting progress since 2014, the minister said Belagavi district has received nearly ₹2,900 crore, including ₹1,900 crore for doubling the 186 km Londa–Miraj section, completed in 2020. Belagavi Railway Station was modernized in 2023 with ₹193 crore. Electrification of the Londa–Miraj line is also complete.
He added that the Hubballi–Dandeli line is ready and services will start soon. Demands to halt Vasco–Nizamuddin Goa Express and Belagavi–Bengaluru Express at Khanapur are under consideration, along with requests for a Vasco–Pandharpur daily service.
“Railway stations are the lifeline of the common man. Development was neglected during the UPA era, but the NDA government has invested ₹29,000 crore in pro-people works,” Somanna said.
MP Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri confirmed that Hubballi–Dadar Express will halt for a minute at Khanapur, while MLA Vitthala Halagekar sought additional services for the region. Rajya Sabha member Iranna Kadadi, former MLA Arvind Patil, and senior railway officials were present.
