The proposed mega coaching terminal near Devanahalli, on the outskirts of Bengaluru, is progressing as South Western Railway (SWR) officials move forward with plans to commission a feasibility study. This terminal, part of a nationwide Railway Board initiative, aims to accommodate growing passenger traffic and offer extensive maintenance facilities.

The SWR has identified a site for the terminal in the villages of Bullahalli and KG Gururayanahosuru, near Venkatagiri Kote Halt station. Strategically located, the site lies close to National Highway 44 (Bengaluru-Hyderabad Road), 7 km from the Satellite Town Ring Road (STRR), and 15 km from Kempegowda International Airport (KIA).

Estimated to cost Rs 15 billion, the Devanahalli terminal is expected to decongest Bengaluru’s largest railway hubs, KSR Bengaluru and Yeshwantpur stations. With northern and north-eastern Bengaluru suburbs experiencing rapid growth due to airport proximity, the new terminal will serve as a critical infrastructure addition, enhancing connectivity and facilitating inter-modal transfers.

The project’s feasibility study will determine key factors such as land requirements, cost estimates, passenger traffic, and environmental impact. While still in the planning phase, SWR officials have emphasized the importance of the terminal for the region’s long-term development.

This terminal will be Bengaluru’s second modern railway hub after SMVT Bengaluru, which became operational recently and handles over 50 trains bound for East and Northeast India. In 2023-24, SMVT Bengaluru served 44.49 lakh passengers and generated Rs. 4.56 billion in revenue.

Meanwhile, SWR is also redeveloping Yeshwantpur and Bengaluru Cantonment stations, along with a significant revamp of KSR Bengaluru. If approved, the Devanahalli terminal will play a pivotal role in improving the city’s rail infrastructure, addressing the growing transportation needs of the region.