K-RIDE’s Tendering Process for Bengaluru Suburban Railway
In 2024, Karnataka Rail Infrastructure Development Company Ltd. (K-RIDE) floated a tender for the track supply contract of the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project. The bidding process began with the opening of technical bids on 13 November 2024, where only one bidder, Jindal Steel and Power Ltd., submitted its proposal. This solitary bid was followed by technical evaluation on 5 April 2025, and the financial bids were opened on 11 April 2025. The evaluation concluded that Jindal Steel and Power Ltd. had submitted the most competitive financial bid.
The contract is valued at ₹20.6 Crores and is set to be completed within a period of 365 days, making it a year-long commitment. K-RIDE outlined that the selected contractor would be responsible for the supply of 60E1 (UIC 60), 880 Grade Rails, conforming to the IRS-T-12-2009 standards.
Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project: A Game-Changer for Commuter Mobility
The Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project is a flagship initiative aimed at transforming urban commuting in the city. Once completed, the 149.348 km railway network will enhance connectivity and reduce congestion in one of India’s fastest-growing cities. The project spans four key corridors, each designed to provide smooth and efficient travel across Bengaluru’s urban landscape.
Here are the key corridors of the Bengaluru Suburban Railway:
• Corridor 1 (Sampige Line): Connecting KSR Bengaluru to Yelahanka and Devanahalli, this corridor will cover a distance of 41.478 km.
• Corridor 2 (Mallige Line): Running from Baiyyappanahalli Terminal to Chikkabanavara, this line spans 24.866 km.
• Corridor 3 (Parijaata Line): Linking Kengeri to Whitefield, this corridor will stretch over 35.52 km.
• Corridor 4 (Kanaka Line): Connecting Heelalige to Rajankunte, this line covers 46.285 km.
These corridors will serve as vital links to ensure efficient rail-based connectivity across Bengaluru, benefitting commuters by reducing travel time and traffic congestion.
Details of the Track Supply Contract
As part of the contract, Jindal Steel and Power Ltd. will supply high-quality rails that meet stringent standards. The 60E1 (UIC 60) rails, an industry standard for heavy-duty railway tracks, will be used for the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project. The 880 Grade Rails, specified by the Indian Railways Standard IRS-T-12-2009, are designed to withstand heavy traffic loads, making them ideal for the busy commuter routes envisioned for the project.
The contract, set at ₹20.6 Crores, underscores the substantial scale of the project and the quality of materials required to ensure its long-term viability. The 365-day completion timeline emphasizes the urgency and commitment to completing the infrastructure within the stipulated time frame.
Jindal Steel’s Contribution to the Project
Jindal Steel and Power Ltd., a leading name in the Indian steel industry, has established a reputation for providing high-quality steel products for infrastructure projects. With its track record in delivering quality materials for the railway and construction sectors, Jindal Steel is well-positioned to meet the rigorous demands of the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project.
The company’s selection as the lowest bidder underscores its competitive pricing and commitment to delivering high-grade materials. This contract also highlights Jindal Steel’s ongoing involvement in India’s growing infrastructure development sector, contributing to railway modernization and urban mobility solutions.
Future Impact on Bengaluru’s Urban Mobility
The Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project is expected to have a transformative impact on the city’s urban mobility. With the rail network set to connect key residential, commercial, and industrial hubs, it will provide a much-needed alternative to road transport, significantly reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
The project is also likely to spur economic growth by improving access to markets and facilitating easier commutes for workers. Moreover, the enhanced public transportation system will reduce the pressure on Bengaluru’s overburdened roads, contributing to better air quality and more sustainable urban development.
Key Takeaways:
• Jindal Steel and Power Ltd. was selected as the lowest bidder for the track supply contract for the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project.
• The contract, valued at ₹20.6 Crores, involves supplying 60E1 (UIC 60), 880 Grade Rails.
• The 365-day contract will provide high-quality tracks for the 149.348 km suburban rail network.
• The Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project spans four corridors connecting key parts of the city, with a total length of 149.348 km.
• Jindal Steel has a proven track record in supplying steel products for large-scale infrastructure projects.
• The railway project will improve urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance environmental sustainability in Bengaluru.
