The Indian Railways and Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the august presence of BS Yediyurappa, Chief Minister of Karnataka and Suresh Channabasappa Angadi, Minister of State for Railways, GoI, via Video Conference, to take forward their joint efforts by way of a unique partnership with an innovative mode of financing for the construction of the Kempegowda International Airport Railway Station (Halt)
The construction of this Railway Station is near completion and is scheduled to be operationalised shortly. BIAL is constructing the station and will handover the station to the Indian Railways, which will operate and maintain the station. BIAL will provide free shuttle service from the Airport Halt Station to the Terminal and other parts of the Airport, as per the schedule of the train services.
The initiative will provide an economical and efficient mode of transport to the residents and business commuters from all parts of Bengaluru, facilitating the realisation of the City’s economic potential and ease traffic congestion on the roads leading to the Airport.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister thanked the Government of India for supporting the project. He congratulated BIAL and the Railway department for working together on this innovative financing model of the much-needed public transport system for the City.
“There have been relentless efforts of all agencies of the State Govt ,Central Govt and various stake holders, including BIAL, working in tandem towards the dream of improving public transportation infrastructure, which will boost our economy and facilitate growth of the nation,” said Suresh Angadi, MoS for Railways, Government of India.
Ajay Kumar Singh, GM/SWR informed that Railway is open for all innovative transport and the Airport connectivity is a game changer where in road, rail and air are being networked for ease of movement.
Ashok Kumar Verma, Divisional Railway Manager, Bengaluru Division was present during the signing of MoU.
“At BIAL, we are extremely excited to contribute to enabling rail connectivity to and from BLR Airport, creating the potential for easy access between Bengaluru and the Airport, especially for the common people. There is an increasing need to offer seamless experiences, and BIAL is committed to offering travel options to simplify not only the passenger journey, but also facilitate optimal use of the Airport facilities and ambience,” said Hari Marar, MD & CEO, BIAL, while speaking on the occasion.
