Citizens batting for a robust suburban train network went on a Rail Yatra on Friday from Yeshwantpur to Hosur and Heelalige to City Railway Station as part of the 'Modalu Train Beku' initiative. They also carried out an online campaign to spread awareness on the importance of a mass transit system and why it is badly required for the city, which has more than 75 lakh vehicles.
Other demands included increasing the frequency of existing train services to destinations like Whitefield and Hosur, providing basic infrastructure at stations and ensuring that the trains keep to their schedule.
“Rail Yatra has been organised to create awareness among the general public on the need of suburban rail. Both the State government and railways had agreed to form a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to implement the suburban rail project but it remains on paper. The SPV should be formed and the project should be taken up without the government trying to buy more time,” said Sanjeev Dyamannavar, a transport expert.
Several citizens’ groups, residents’ welfare associations and people who have offices on these routes have extended their support to the cause.
“We have been demanding expedition of the suburban rail project for the benefit of Bengalureans. South Western Railway (SWR) should also increase train services from points like Yeshwantpur, City Railway Station and Hebbal to destinations like Whitefield and Hosur. Techies in large number are using Bellandur, Helegehalli and others stations for their daily commute, and there is a need to provide basic amenities in all these stations,” said Narendranath from the Karnataka Rail Users Forum.
Many supporters carried placards and were joined by commuters.
Jagadeesh, who uses the train regularly, said, “I travel from Lottegollahalli to Heelalige. The morning train starts at 6.30 a.m and reaches the destination in 40 minutes. However, in the evening, I cannot take the train as there is no service when I leave my office. I travel by road and it takes more than two hours to reach home. There is an urgent need to fix the traffic woes in the city. People should support mass transit systems.”
Last December, the supporters of suburban rail system had created awareness by taking taking up the ChukuBukku Beku campaign to highlight the need for a mass transit system.
