On June 4, chamber president Ashokswamy Herur submitted a representation to the Union Railway Minister, welcoming the recent Union Cabinet approval for the third and fourth railway lines on the Ballari-Hosapete section. He emphasized the importance of utilizing this new infrastructure to establish a direct rail link between Daroji and Gangavathi.
The representation highlighted that Gangavathi and Sindhanur taluks, often referred to as the “Rice Bowl” of Karnataka, would greatly benefit from enhanced transportation of paddy and rice. It would also facilitate the efficient movement of fertilizers and pesticides into the region.
Gangavathi serves as a major procurement hub for tractors and spare parts. A railway connection would significantly reduce transportation costs for bulk materials such as steel and cement, thereby supporting local trade and industry.
An official railway survey estimates the 36-kilometer Daroji-Gangavathi stretch to cost approximately Rs 705.4 crore, marking it as a cost-effective infrastructure investment. Herur stated that the line would accelerate economic development in Kalyana Karnataka, increase logistical revenue for Indian Railways, and provide a vital transportation lifeline for farmers and traders.
The Koppal Chamber of Commerce has urged the Union Railway Ministry to prioritize the project and instruct the relevant authorities to expedite its approval and construction process.
