CHENNAI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the works to redevelop 34 stations in Tamil Nadu through video conference on Monday. He also dedicated to the nation four road over bridges and 114 road under bridges constructed by the Southern Railway and laid the foundation stone for building 75 railway overbridges.
Notably, 32 stations including Chennai Beach, Chennai Park, Ambattur, St Thomas Mount, Guindy, Mambalam, Mettupalayam, Coimbatore North, and others come under the Southern Railway, while Dharmapuri and Hosur are developed by the South Western Railway.
A total of Rs 4,100 crore have been allocated for modernisation of 77 stations in Tamil Nadu under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The development works are in different stages of execution at 18 stations for which works were inaugurated by Modi in August 2023.
Speaking at the event, PM accorded a special mention for redevelopment of Kumbakonam station. He said the proposed redevelopment would render an architectural facelift to the station by combining Chola-Dravidian style of architecture.
Governor RN Ravi and Union Minister L Murugan took part in the inaugural ceremony at St.Thomas Mount and Mettupalayam stations, respectively. Governor thanked the PM on behalf of the people of Tamil Nadu stating the initiative would lead to historic transformation of rail infrastructure in the state.
All the function venues were virtually connected to the Central function. Prizes were distributed during the function to school students who had won awards at various competitions held as run up to the event.
The redevelopment of Chennai Beach station, with an estimated cost of Rs 14.58 crore, involves upgrading platforms, improved waiting areas, modern signage, and improved integration with MRTS and MTC.
The redevelopment of Guindy station, costing Rs 13.5 crore, includes provision of better approach roads, a new booking office, and enhancements to platform and circulating areas.
A railway official explained, “The modernisation of stations will be taken up in a phased manner.”