South Western Railway (SWR) has received a major financial push under the Amrit Station Scheme, with Rs 2,110 crore allocated for the redevelopment of 61 railway stations across Karnataka. This forms part of an enhanced total budget of Rs 7,748 crore for the 2026–27 financial year, reflecting the zone’s growing infrastructure and passenger demand. Redevelopment activities have already been completed at Bagalkot, Dharwad, Gadag, Gokak Road and Munirabad stations, delivering upgraded passenger amenities and improved station environments. Meanwhile, stations at Badami, Alnavar, Koppal and Bantwal are awaiting the start of redevelopment works.
Rail connectivity in Karnataka has also strengthened with the operation of 12 pairs of Vande Bharat Express and three pairs of Amrit Bharat Express trains, enabling faster and more comfortable intercity travel. Network expansion has progressed steadily, with around 1,750 km of new railway lines added since 2014. Electrification now covers nearly the entire network at 97 per cent, supported by 707 newly built flyovers and underpasses to improve safety and road–rail coordination.