Union Minister V Somanna Launches Chikkamagaluru-Tirupati Train, Signals Bright Future for Karnataka Rail!

On July 11, 2025, Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti V Somanna inaugurated the Chikkamagaluru-Tirupati Weekly Express (Train No. 17423/17424) at Chikkamagaluru Railway Station, marking a significant step in enhancing rail connectivity between Karnataka’s Malnad region and Andhra Pradesh’s pilgrimage hub.

The train, departing Tirupati every Thursday at 9:00 pm and arriving in Chikkamagaluru at 10:30 am on Friday, and returning from Chikkamagaluru every Friday at 5:30 pm to reach Tirupati by 7:40 am Saturday, features 18 LHB coaches, including AC, sleeper, and general classes, with a compartment for differently-abled passengers. Stops include Chittoor, Katpadi, Bangarapet, Bengaluru, Tumakuru, and others, easing travel for devotees and boosting local commerce.

Somanna announced that the Hassan-Belur-Chikkamagaluru railway line, with land acquisition underway for 585 acres, will be operational within two years, promising further connectivity. He highlighted ongoing upgrades, including ₹22 crore for Chikkamagaluru station, ₹26 crore for Sakaleshpura, and ₹23 crore for Hassan, alongside plans to speed up the Sakaleshpura-Gundya service.

Also Read: Amit Shah Launches BJP’s Kerala Campaign with Grand Office Inauguration!

The minister praised Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for clearing land compensation and emphasized Centre-State collaboration, with ₹7,564 crore allocated for Karnataka’s rail development in 2025.

Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, who championed the train service, called it a fulfilled dream for the region. The event, attended by MLA T.D. Raje Gowda and others, underscores BJP’s push to strengthen Karnataka’s rail infrastructure, with surveys planned for additional lines like Shivamogga-Sringeri-Mangaluru.

Also Read: Maharashtra Bars Go Dry on July 14: Massive Protest Against Crippling Tax Hikes!