Howrah, Kolkata stations to get airport-like look in Eastern Railway revamp plan

The Eastern Railway of India has announced plans to revamp several train stations, including Howrah, Kolkata (Chitpore), Bandel, and Asansol, by 2026. The announcement was made as part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, a railway ministry initiative to redevelop 1,275 stations across the country.

According to Arun Arora, the General Manager of Eastern Railway, the stations will feature a state-of-the-art design and modern technology, with separate arrival and departure areas, lounges, and rooftop plazas similar to those found in airports. The redevelopment will also include spacious waiting areas, refreshment zones, and digital displays to guide passengers.

The Howrah station, spread over an area of 69,000 sqm and with a daily average footfall of over 10 lakhs, will be equipped with walkalators, elevators, and escalators to facilitate pedestrian movement. Separate passenger drop-off and pick-up areas will also be designated for private cars, taxis, auto rickshaws, and buses.

The Sealdah station will have a second entry point on the canal side to provide direct access to the platform for long-distance train passengers. A clean-up plan is also in the works for the station premises. However, the state government's support is needed to declutter the main entry point that is crowded with cars, taxis, autos, and pedestrians.

The revamped stations will feature intelligent or smart buildings with facilities to maximize operational efficiency. The stations will also have sprawling roof plazas to provide passengers with utmost comfort while they are in the station premises. The heritage structures at Howrah station will be retained, and the makeover will combine world-class architecture and aesthetics.

The design for Asansol station has been finalized, and construction work is underway. The redevelopment of the other stations is expected to begin soon, and the revamp is expected to be completed by 2026.