Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal

Bantwal, Jun 10: In a welcome development for railway passengers of Dakshina Kannada, the Bantwal railway station is undergoing a major transformation under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The upgradation work, which has gained momentum since January this year, is being carried out at an estimated cost of Rs 28.49 crore.

The foundation stone for the project was virtually laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2024. Then MP Nalin Kumar Kateel and MLA Rajesh Naik participated in the programme held at the railway station. More than a year and four months have passed since the event, and while significant progress has been made, several works are still ongoing. Bantwal station is considered one of the key points on the Mangaluru–Bengaluru railway route.

If the works progress as planned, passengers at Bantwal railway station can expect a significant enhancement in facilities. A spacious ticket counter with advance booking services is being constructed, along with separate waiting rooms for men and women. A cafeteria and four catering stalls will serve refreshments, while each platform will be equipped with clean and modern toilet facilities. The station building is being fitted with granite flooring, and other areas will feature concrete or tiled surfaces. Extended shelters are being installed across platforms for passenger convenience. Additionally, the entire station will have CCTV surveillance and Wi-Fi access. LED display boards will provide real-time information on train movements and coach positions, and the main entrance will be aesthetically upgraded as part of the overall station beautification.

The required infrastructure for electrification has already been installed. Once electric train services begin, the station will have the necessary supporting facilities in place.

Until December, the station development seemed to move at a ‘passenger train’ pace, but in recent months it has accelerated to ‘superfast train’ speed. However, this sudden pace has led locals to question whether quality is being maintained. When contacted, civil engineers overseeing the project assured that a monitoring agency is keeping a close eye on all ongoing work.

Speaking about the broader developments under the Amrit Bharat Scheme, MP Capt Brijesh Chowta said that several railway stations including Bantwal are witnessing rapid progress, and efforts are being made to complete the work at the earliest.