RLDA to redevelop Delhi’s 2 stations into world-class rly station

The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) is currently working on the redevelopment of Bijwasan and Safdarjung railway stations in Delhi that will not only transform their look but also will prove to be a game-changer in improving rail facilities and connectivity. Bijwasan station will also have respective pick-up and drop-off zones besides multi-modal integration with various transport modes like Delhi Metro, private vehicles, and the proposed Interstate Bus Terminal. While Bijwasan is adjacent to Dwarka Sector 21, Safdarjung station is at one of the prime locations in Delhi. The vision is to convert the small local station in Delhi into a world-class transport hub by 2024. Kamladityya Construction Pvt Ltd was awarded the project worth Rs 270.82 crore and has already started work at the site. The major parts of the project are a terminal station construction of 30,400 sq m, an air concourse of 12,500 sq m, a circulating road network of 1,23,500 sq m, and external development including a water treatment plant and a sewage treatment plant. The contractor is currently building the terminal station building and air concourse space. The greenfield development of the Bijwasan railway station will have eight platforms (two at present) with four-passenger subways. Provisions have also been made for congestion-free entry and exit besides providing separate movement paths for departing and reaching passengers. The airspace concourse will host a waiting space, retail shops, and other commuter-centric facilities. To allow smooth passenger commutes, the station will have facilities like escalators and lifts. RLDA vice-chairman Ved Parkash Dudeja told the media that Bijwasan station would see improved traffic going ahead, as it will promote the introduction of new trains from the station. The construction of a high-quality mega terminal is in progress at the Bijwasan railway station, and there will be commercial development as well. The track infrastructure is being looked after by Northern Railways, and the terminal construction, concourse, passenger space, and other development works are being done by the RLDA, said Dudeja. The redevelopment of Safdarjung Railway Station is underway at around Rs 384 crore. The Safdarjung Railway station post-redevelopment will have a built-up area of 41,350 sq m. It will not only convert the station into a modern transportation hub but will also bring in an integrated office structure, along with retail development. Image Source Also read: Govt introduces innovation strategy for tech evolution in Railways