Puducherry station's Rs 930 mn redevelopment gains momentum

The ambitious Rs 930 million redevelopment of Puducherry Station is gaining significant momentum, poised to elevate the travel experience for tourists and passengers alike. Initiated in September 2022, the renovation project is making steady progress. A significant milestone was marked on August 6, 2023, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the station's transformation under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.The project has already achieved several crucial milestones, including completing the new operation building column up to the lintel level, TTE Rest Room Pile Cap and grade Beam Shuttering, grade beam PCC work, Driver Rest Room pile cap, and parcel office column up to the lintel level.The redevelopment efforts have included the validation of the master plan, comprehensive surveys, project management services initiation, and grant of the right of way for various structures, such as the New Operation Building, Parcel Office, TTE Rest Room, Driver Rest Room, Officer Rest House, Substation, and UG Sump. The project management site office is operational, and the site premises have been effectively barricaded.The extensive project is entrusted to M/s Engineering Projects (India), Chennai, through an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract. The timeline for project completion is set at 24 months. The responsibility of Project Management services (PMS) is assigned to M/s TUV India, Chennai.Anticipating improved passenger convenience, the redevelopment plan envisions two terminals—one on the Beach Side and the other on the Villupuram Side. These terminals will house world-class amenities, including waiting lounges, ticketing areas, commercial zones, and roof plazas. The proposed structures will feature FOBs, air concourses, lifts, and escalators, ensuring seamless passenger movement.Beyond enhancing passenger comfort, the project aims to alleviate traffic issues and integrate the city through feeder buses and e-bus parking facilities. The new design will seamlessly blend with Puducherry's aesthetic, offering travellers a welcoming and contemporary environment that contributes to a positive perception of the city.