Surat to emerge as a major passenger and commercial hub. Western Railway has launched an ambitious plan to redevelop 124 railway stations with an aim to provide state-of-the-art facilities and better infrastructure for passengers.
The redevelopment project includes 30 stations in Mumbai Central zone, 18 in Vadodara, 19 in Ratlam, 20 in Ahmedabad, 20 in Bhavnagar and 17 in Rajkot zone. The stations will be upgraded with modern facilities and world class infrastructure. The travel experience for passengers will improve and railway operations will become more efficient.
Surat Railway Station is one of these major stations being redeveloped. Surat station is being developed as a multi-modal transport hub (MMTH), which will integrate railways, GSRTC city bus terminal station, metro etc. to provide seamless connectivity.
The station has been designed keeping in mind the architectural environment which ensures that the overall appearance of the entire station premises is that of a business centre of international standards.
A unified theme through the right facade, finish, colour, material, texture will add to its magnificence. The railway station of Surat which is one of the fastest growing cities in India and a major centre of trade and commerce, will transform into an important hub for passenger traffic and economic activities.
The total estimated cost of the Surat Station Redevelopment Project is Rupees 1,477 crores, out of which Rs. 481 cr. will be contributed by the state government. The redevelopment work is being carried out by Surat Integrated Transport Corporation (SITCO), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) formed in collaboration with the Indian Railways and the Government of Gujarat.
The project involves expansion of station building, platform upgradation, improvement of passenger amenities and beautification of the station complex.
The redeveloped Surat station will have world-class passenger amenities, including a spacious auditorium spread over 10,900 square metres, lounges, retail shops and a skywalk. Additional facilities will be developed above the platform to manage congestion.
The station will have 41 lifts and 70 escalators to ensure smooth movement of passengers and will be fully accessible for disabled passengers. The station is being developed as a platinum rated green building. which will promote environmental protection and energy. will ensure efficient use of water and other resources.
After redevelopment, Surat railway station will emerge as a modern, passenger-centric facility which will cater to the needs of the rapidly growing population of the city. This change is expected to establish Surat as a passenger and commercial hub. The project is an important step towards creating “Naye Bharat ka Naya Station”