A delegation from the Kalyana Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKCCI) in Kalaburagi recently met with Sujeet Mishra, the Divisional Railway Manager of the Solapur Division. During this productive meeting, they presented a series of important requests concerning the improvement of railway services and infrastructure within the region.
The influential KKCCI delegation included former presidents Shashikant Patil (who also serves as a Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee member) and Umakant Nigudgi, alongside honorary secretary Shivraj V. Inginshetty.
The meeting, held at the Solapur Divisional Railway Office, was also attended by several senior railway officials.
One key point of discussion was the current early morning departure time of the Kalaburagi-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express. The KKCCI advocated for a revised departure time of 6:30 AM instead of the current 5:15 AM, emphasizing that this change should not affect its scheduled arrival in Bengaluru.
Furthermore, the delegation strongly urged for the extension of the popular Mumbai-Solapur Vande Bharat Express route to reach Kalaburagi, enhancing connectivity for the region.
Responding to the Vande Bharat extension request, Mr. Mishra clarified that this expansion would be feasible only after the completion of the Vande Bharat maintenance and service depot at Tikekarwadi.
Regarding the reinstatement of passenger train services that were suspended after the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Mishra suggested that the KKCCI submit proposals for modern MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) services. These could serve as excellent alternatives for the Kalaburagi-Hyderabad and Solapur-Raichur routes.
The Divisional Railway Manager also informed the delegation about the ongoing development of a new railway yard at Hirenandur and assured them that the long-pending under-bridge construction at Shahabad is set to begin once the monsoon season concludes.
The KKCCI also sought assurances for continuous Solapur-Hassan train services, to which Mr. Mishra pledged uninterrupted operation, except in cases of unforeseen natural calamities.
Another significant and long-standing demand raised was the establishment of a dedicated divisional railway office in Kalaburagi. Mr. Mishra advised the delegation to elevate this matter to the Railway Minister and the Railway Board for their careful consideration.
Addressing questions about the redevelopment of stations under the ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, Mr. Mishra indicated that redesign work is already well underway, with construction slated to commence very soon.
Additionally, the KKCCI proposed the introduction of Kisan Rail services from Kalaburagi to Hyderabad and Ramanagara. These specialized train services would significantly boost the efficient transportation of agricultural produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and valuable silk cocoons. Mr. Mishra recommended a joint meeting involving farmers, traders, agriculture officials, and railway authorities to formulate a comprehensive proposal for this initiative.
Following the meeting, Mr. Inginshetty released a statement expressing the delegation’s satisfaction with the positive and constructive responses received from the official. He affirmed that the KKCCI would diligently pursue follow-up actions on all the crucial demands presented.