CST entry point to get Rs 10L makeover

Parcel depot near second access point on P D'mello Road to be shifted; food court, waiting rooms and other facilities to be added

At a time when UNESCO has declared Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) as a world heritage site, the Central Railway (CR) authorities are taking baby steps towards converting it into a world-class station and making it commuter-friendly.



However, if the officials are to be believed, then they had been requesting amendments in the rule (heritage structure) that would allow them to go ahead with Rs 1,800 makeover for CST.

Dire straits
The authorities are planning to revamp the second entry/exit point from the P D'mello Road, which at present wears a deserted look, as the passengers coming to CST to catch long-distance trains rarely use it.

Sources confirmed that the section is in dire need of a revamp. To make matters worse, a parcel depot is being operated from the area that leads to platform number 17 and 18.

"The current state of affair is in pretty bad shape. Long-distance passengers are deprived of facilities such as waiting rooms, refreshment and washrooms," said a senior CR official, requesting anonymity.

Moreover, even the coolies lack interest in waiting for passengers at the east end of the railway station.
Regardless of the fact that all the important trains (24 coaches) depart from platform number 17 and 18, these two platforms lack adequate facilities.

Changes needed
A couple of days ago, Subodh Jain, general manager, CR, reviewed this area and suggested changes, and introduction of passenger amenities on an immediate basis. Some of the suggestions made by Jain, include building a food court, air-conditioned waiting rooms, drinking water and washroom facilities.

Besides, a suggestion was made to relocate the parcel depot, as it will decongest the area, allowing the commuters to move in and out freely.

"We expect the work to be completed within six to eight months," said V Malegaonkar, chief PRO, CR.
The cost for the revamp is expected to be around Rs 10 lakh.

100
Number of long-distance trains arriving and departing from CST daily