Under the ambitious Station Redevelopment Programme, Visakhapatnam Railway station will undergo a makeover as the city soon becomes the headquarters of the new South Coastal Railway Zone. The programme aims to enhance passengers’ travel experience by offering world-class facilities.
It will be developed using an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) model at the cost of 393 crore. The officials state a three-year timeline for the completion of the project. The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) is seeking bids for the project, and the deadline for bid submissions is 12 August.
Visakhapatnam railway station is the major halt of the Howrah-Chennai main line and is well-connected to the city. The port main and station roads provide good access to the surrounding areas.
In a recent press release, RLDA Vice-Chairman Ved Parkash Dudeja said
“Visakhapatnam is one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The growth of the IT sector in recent times has significantly boosted the economic activities in the city. Redevelopment of Visakhapatnam railway station will have a multiplier impact on the local economy and further accentuate growth.”
Upgrades to the station will include state-of-the-art skywalks allowing passengers to move seamlessly between platforms and a roof plaza over the platforms, which will link the departure halls and the common waiting areas.
The parking facility will be equipped with an IOT-based parking management system that will allow passengers to book parking slots via mobile apps. Commercial space will also be developed over the multi-level parking area.
The station will also have a medical emergency room, a cloakroom, and a retiring room, multiple offices and retail spaces as part of the redevelopment, reports Financial Express.
The Ministry of Railways tweeted images of the model design for the Visakhapatnam railway station and wrote, “Grand makeover for Vizag! The proposed design of the to-be redeveloped Visakhapatnam Railway Station boasts superior standards infrastructure, state-of-the-art skywalks, smart parking management system & more to provide passengers a delightful experience.”