Chennai-Bengaluru Bullet Train Project Enters New Phase; DPR Update and Fresh Surveys Begin

The proposed Chennai-Bengaluru High-Speed Bullet Train Project has reached a significant milestone, with the National High-Speed Rail Corporation (NHSRCL) initiating the next phase of planning.

The corporation has issued a fresh tender to update the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and carry out new engineering and technical studies for the project. While the DPR for the Chennai-Bengaluru-Mysuru High-Speed Rail Corridor was submitted in September 2024, the current focus is on accelerating work for the Chennai-Bengaluru section.

According to the tender, land surveys, geotechnical investigations, soil testing, and route alignment reviews are to be completed within 150 days. Detailed flood-risk and hydrological studies will also be conducted to ensure that the proposed alignment does not adversely affect river crossings, including the Cooum River and the Palar River.

Elevated Tracks Planned in Chennai

As part of the revised plans, elevated tracks are proposed through the Perambur Loco Works and Integral Coach Factory (ICF) areas. Authorities are also collecting updated information from the Public Works Department (PWD), Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), and other local agencies to prepare revised survey maps and identify any additional land acquisition requirements.

Parandur Station Retained in Corridor

Although reports suggest that the Tamil Nadu government has dropped the proposed Parandur Greenfield Airport project, the planned Parandur bullet train station will continue to remain part of the high-speed rail corridor.

The proposed 306.2-km Chennai-Bengaluru Bullet Train corridor is expected to connect the following locations:

• Chennai

• Poonamallee

• Parandur

• Chittoor

• Bangarupalem

• Kolar

• Malur

• Whitefield

• Bengaluru

Seamless Connectivity Planned

To improve passenger convenience, an underground high-speed rail station is proposed near Chennai Central Railway Station, providing direct connectivity with the Chennai Metro Rail network.

An elevated station at Poonamallee is planned along the northern side of National Highway 4 (NH-4). This station will integrate with the Outer Ring Road, Chennai Metro Phase II, and provide convenient access to Chennai International Airport.

Another elevated station at Parandur is proposed on the southern side of the planned airport site. It will be connected to the Chennai-Bengaluru Expressway and National Highway 48 (NH-48) through dedicated link roads.

The latest developments indicate that the Chennai-Bengaluru Bullet Train project is progressing steadily, with detailed engineering studies now underway before construction activities begin.