New Delhi, May 16 -- The Railway Board has approved Final Location Surveys for two new railway lines in Karnataka. This decision is a significant step towards improving the rail network in the state under the South Western Railway (SWR) zone.

The first line will stretch 162 km from Almatti to Yadgir, with a survey budget of Rs.4.05 crore. The second line, covering 73 km from Bhadravathi to Chikjajur through Channagiri, has a budget of Rs.1.825 crore. In total, these surveys will cost Rs.5.875 crore.

The Almatti-Yadgir line is vital for enhancing connectivity in northern Karnataka. Almatti is key for agriculture and energy, thanks to its dam and hydroelectric power. Yadgir is a major junction on the Hyderabad-Mumbai rail corridor. This l...