Electric Train Service to Nandi Hills, North Bangalore, Will Commence on 11 December 2023

North Bengaluru's transportation landscape is set for an electric transformation.

Nandi Hills, a popular weekend destination located approximately 60 kilometres from Bengaluru, would be accessible to city residents via electric train beginning on 11 December 2023.

This new service, emerging after the completion of the electrification project between Yelahanka and Chikkaballapur in March 2022, marks a significant milestone.

The South Western Railway (SWR) has announced the extension of Memu (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) trains, previously operating on the airport route, to now include Chikkaballapur. This development not only enhances travel convenience but also positively impacts the real estate and cultural prospects of the region.

Residents will now have easier access to Nandi Hills, a renowned weekend retreat situated about 60 kilometers from Bengaluru. The routes include Bengaluru Cantonment-Chikkaballapur, Chikkaballapur-Bengaluru Cantonment, and Yeswantpur-Chikkaballapur-Yeswantpur. However, existing services like the KSR Bengaluru-Kolar-Cantonment Diesel Multiple Unit and KSR Bengaluru - Kolar - KSR Bengaluru Demu will continue to make halts at Nandi station.

Local resident Ganesh Aiyer highlighted the challenges in reaching key destinations from Nandi Station, such as the Bhoganandishwara temple and the Nandi Hills summit. He pointed out the lack of integrated public transport facilities, which limits the station's practicality for work or leisure purposes. The extension of services to Chikkaballapur is anticipated to benefit a diverse group including students, farmers, and visitors to the 112-ft Adiyogi bust at the Isha Foundation.

Despite these advancements, concerns remain about the absence of stoppages at intermediate stations like Bettahalsoor, Doddajala, and Channasandra, attributed to the unavailability of station agents for the modest pay offered.

Further enriching Bengaluru's historical and cultural journey, SWR had proposed a one-day tour package along the 108-year-old Bengaluru-Devanahalli-Chikkaballapur heritage rail route. This plan includes revitalizing heritage stations and offering unique experiences like sunrise viewings at Nandi Hills and visits to Devanahalli Fort and the Adiyogi bust.

Kusuma Hariprasad, Additional Divisional Manager of Bengaluru division, shared that the restoration of heritage stations like Doddajala, Devanahalli, Avatihalli, and the upcoming Nandi halt is underway. The completion of these projects is expected to significantly influence the areas of Yelahanka, Chikkaballapur, Nandi Hills, and their surrounding locales.