Karnataka’s Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Vijayapura District In-charge, M.B. Patil, has urged the Union Railway Ministry to establish a coach depot and create an additional entry and exit gate at Vijayapura’s railway station. This move aims to enhance infrastructure in the northern part of the state. Patil emphasized that these developments would significantly boost railway maintenance infrastructure and improve rail connectivity for the district and the broader North Karnataka region.
The proposal, discussed with Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna, also involved a letter to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw seeking prompt approval for the projects. Patil highlighted that relocating the goods shed within the Vijayapura railway station premises to Aliyabad has freed up land for the proposed coach depot. This depot could potentially evolve into a railway maintenance hub, facilitating more efficient train servicing and supporting the expansion of rail operations in the area.
Moreover, Patil requested the Railway Ministry to construct an additional arrival and departure gate at the Vijayapura railway station to enhance passenger convenience. Stressing the city’s significance as a historical and tourist destination attracting numerous visitors annually, he emphasized the necessity of improving access to the station. Patil underlined the importance of an extra gate to ensure smoother passenger movement and better crowd management, particularly during peak times.
During a recent Railway Department program, Patil discussed these proposals with Union Minister of State V. Somanna, receiving a positive response. He expressed confidence in the Railway Ministry’s favorable consideration of the requests, noting that the projects would also benefit the upcoming Bengaluru-Vijayapura Vande Bharat Express. Patil highlighted that the envisioned coach depot and enhanced station infrastructure would not only strengthen railway services in Vijayapura but also foster the overall development of North Karnataka by improving connectivity, operational efficiency, and passenger facilities.
