Thousands of commuters in Bengaluru who currently cross active railway tracks to reach Sampige Road Metro station may soon have a much safer alternative. South Western Railway has announced a new pedestrian subway connecting Swatantra Palya with the Metro station, a project aimed at reducing risks for daily commuters while improving access from nearby residential areas.
As per TOI, the underground passage, estimated to cost Rs 5.5 crore, will connect neighbourhoods including Srirampura, Seshadripuram, Okalipuram and parts of Malleswaram with the Metro station without requiring pedestrians to walk across railway tracks.
Why is Bengaluru building a new pedestrian subway?
At present, many commuters heading to Sampige Road Metro station cross busy railway tracks using a narrow sloping pathway. Railway officials say the route has become a major safety concern because of the constant movement of people across the main railway line.
The new subway has been planned to provide a dedicated underground crossing, allowing pedestrians to move safely beneath the tracks while reducing interference with railway operations.
Officials believe the project will improve both commuter safety and train movement by eliminating the need for people to cross the tracks directly.
What will the new subway include?
According to South Western Railway, the pedestrian subway will be completely underground and has been designed to comfortably accommodate daily foot traffic.
The subway will feature:
- A width of 5 metres
- A ceiling height of 2.6 metres
- Direct pedestrian connectivity between Swatantra Palya and Sampige Road Metro station
The project is being fully funded by South Western Railway at an estimated cost of Rs 5.5 crore.
When will construction begin and finish?
The foundation stone for the project was laid earlier this week, with construction expected to begin shortly.
Railway authorities have set January 2027 as the target for completing the pedestrian subway.
Once operational, the passage is expected to make daily travel easier for thousands of Metro users while significantly reducing the risks associated with crossing railway tracks.
Who will benefit from the project?
The subway is expected to improve connectivity for residents living in several nearby localities, including:
- Srirampura
- Seshadripuram
- Okalipuram
- Malleswaram
For many commuters, the project will provide a shorter, safer and more convenient route to Sampige Road Metro station without having to navigate active railway lines.
What other railway projects are underway?
Alongside the pedestrian subway, South Western Railway said work on the Road Under Bridge at Ramohalli Gate near Kengeri is also progressing and is expected to be completed soon.
The railway zone also said the Tumakuru-Davanagere and Rayadurga-Tumakuru railway line projects are being taken up on priority. In addition, planning is underway for a new direct railway line connecting Bengaluru and Kolar via Hosakote, Narasapura and Vemagal.
(With TOI inputs)
