The Central Railway (CR) has initiated a Rs 101 crore redevelopment project for four Mumbai stations— Parel, Byculla, Kanjurmarg, and Vikhroli —under the Amrit Bharat Scheme, citing increasing footfalls. Parel and Byculla's revamp costs are Rs 19.41 crore and Rs 35.52 crore, respectively, while Vikhroli and Kanjurmarg redevelopment costs are pegged at Rs 19.16 crore and Rs 27.01 crore. The focus is on expanding station premises for enhanced movability, including foot over bridges, lifts, escalators, and better amenities like water huts and lighting. The stations will feature improved infrastructure, signage, and accessibility. The CR aims to complete the project within a year.
The Central Railway (CR) has initiated a comprehensive redevelopment project under the Amrit Bharat Scheme for four key Mumbai stations—Parel, Byculla, Kanjurmarg, and Vikhroli—at an estimated cost of Rs 101 crore. This strategic move stems from the escalating footfalls at these stations.
The primary objective of this initiative is to expand station premises, creating more space to facilitate smoother movement. The proposed designs focus on holistic improvements, including Foot Over Bridges (FOBs), additional lifts and escalators, increased drinking water facilities, enhanced seating arrangements, and improved lighting and ventilation. Upgraded flooring on platforms is also a priority. Other additions include new signs and signages for enhanced commuter navigation.
The existing booking office at Parel is set for renovation, with the entire project estimated at Rs 19.41 crore, as confirmed by Shivraj Manaspure, Chief PRO of CR. Parel station has witnessed a surge in foot traffic due to the influx of multinational companies, corporate offices, and the presence of tertiary hospitals in the area. The recent shift of terminating trains from Dadar to Parel station has also resulted in an increased commuter traffic of around 42,000 daily commuters. All of this emphasizes the need for station upgrades.
Simultaneously, redevelopment has commenced at two other Eastern suburbs stations—Vikhroli and Kanjurmarg. The foundation and excavation work for the new station buildings and ticket booking offices have already begun. Allocated budgets for their upgrades are Rs 19.16 crore and Rs 27.01 crore, respectively. These stations witness a daily footfall of over two lakh commuters, given their proximity to commercial hubs and residential societies. Meanwhile, Byculla station's redevelopment is budgeted at Rs 35.52 crore. The redevelopment is expected to conclude within a year.
In conclusion, the present decision of the CR is highly appreciable as improving infrastructure is not only necessary for the future but also for the present, as it helps avoid any untoward incidents like bridge collapses as commuters increase. The renovation addresses this along with creating a more commuter-friendly environment, facilitating easier navigation and accessibility for the commuters, thus making way for a more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing urban infrastructure.
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