In a strategic move to address infrastructure and financial issues, the Railway Ministry has proposed taking over the Hassan-Mangaluru Rail Development Corporation (HMRDC) from the Karnataka government. This announcement was made by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during a Lok Sabha session on December 11, 2024, in response to a question raised by Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta.
The HMRDC, a special purpose vehicle created for the gauge conversion of the Hassan-Mangaluru railway line, has been facing financial difficulties, prompting the Centre to step in. Minister Vaishnaw stated that the Railway Ministry is prepared to take over the corporation and streamline operations for better management and progress.
Additionally, Vaishnaw confirmed that the Ministry has sanctioned the final location survey for line doubling between Bengaluru and Mangaluru. The survey will be conducted in two parts, aimed at increasing line capacity and improving train operations on this crucial corridor.
Responding to supplementary questions, the Minister emphasized that since the project was originally a joint venture, the financial contribution from the Karnataka state government remains essential for any proposed capacity enhancement initiatives.
MP Captain Brijesh Chowta also urged the Railway Ministry to bring the Mangaluru Railway Region under the South Western Railway (SWR) administration to improve administrative efficiency and accelerate infrastructure development in the region.
These developments are seen as important steps towards boosting rail connectivity, efficiency, and passenger convenience in Karnataka’s coastal and hinterland regions.
