CHENNAI: Chennai figures prominently in the list of 100 infrastructure projects planned for launch during the passenger and customer facilitation fortnight programme planned by Indian Railways from May 26 all over India.
Express has information that Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu is likely to lay the foundation stone for the fifth and sixth lines between Chennai Central and Basin Bridge junction, a long-awaited project that would de-congest suburban traffic on the sector. Other projects include construction of two additional platforms at Chennai Beach, installation of digital display boards inside Chennai Central and a new foot overbridge (FOB) at Chennai Egmore. Passenger amenities at Chennai Central are also set for an upgrade.
An interesting point in the directive issued by the railway minister is the tagging of trade union leaders as ‘brand ambassadors’ while general managers and divisional railway managers (DRMs) interact with passengers. GMs have been asked to involve union leaders, often considered as troublemakers by railway bureaucracy, in highlighting achievements. Further, railway workshops and production units like the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) have been asked to impart skill development courses like carpentry, welding, painting and machining to 100 local youth from June 1 for a period of two-three months.
Chugging Ahead
Foundation stone/plaque for 5th and 6th lines between Chennai Central and Basin Bridge
Two additional platforms at Chennai Beach
Foot-overbridge at Chennai Egmore
Digital display boards inside Chennai Central
Passenger amenities at Chennai Central to be upgraded