New modular holding areas to accommodate 7,000 passengers and ease congestion
BENGALURU:
Three major railway stations in Bengaluru—KSR (Majestic), SMVT (Byappanahalli), and KR Pura—are set to undergo a major transformation to handle the city’s rapidly growing passenger traffic. Each station will soon feature new modular passenger holding areas capable of accommodating up to 7,000 passengers by next year. A similar revamp is also planned for Mysuru railway station as part of a nationwide upgradation project covering 76 stations.
According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, these structures will be designed keeping in mind local climatic and spatial conditions. The South Western Railway (SWR) said the new holding areas draw inspiration from the Yatri Suvidha Kendra at New Delhi Railway Station, which effectively managed large crowds during Diwali and Chhath festivals.
Each holding area will feature three zones to streamline passenger movement and improve comfort. The facilities will include toilets, ticket counters, automatic ticket vending machines, and free RO drinking water systems. SWR’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Manjunath Kanamadi, explained that these areas will function similarly to airport concourses, helping decongest platforms and regulate queues during peak hours.
“Unlike regular concourses, only passengers with valid tickets will be allowed entry. Many passengers arrive well before their train time and occupy the platforms. These new facilities will ensure smooth train operations and provide comfort to waiting passengers,” an SWR official said.
The railway board believes this initiative will not only enhance passenger convenience but also improve safety and operational efficiency at some of the busiest stations in southern India.
BOX: Space Constraints Pose Challenge
Officials admit that stations like Yeshwanthpur and KSR Bengaluru lack adequate space for developing large holding areas. The SWR is currently identifying available land and exploring vertical and modular designs to meet the Railway Ministry’s deadline. Despite challenges, authorities are confident of completing the project within the stipulated timeframe.