Berhampur railway station is set to undergo a major transformation as the East Coast Railway has issued a tender for its redevelopment at a cost of Rs 182.57 crore in the first phase. The Indian Railways had sanctioned Rs 300 crore for the development of this historic station, one of the oldest on the Howrah-Chennai main line, in April this year.
Redevelopment Plans and Features
The comprehensive redevelopment plan includes the addition of three new rail lines and four platforms. A wide air concourse will be constructed to enhance passenger comfort, along with a quick watering system for trains. The station will also be equipped with modern amenities such as escalators and lifts to improve accessibility. Surveillance measures will be strengthened to ensure safety and security. The first phase of works will be executed through the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) model, with a targeted completion timeline of 20 months, according to sources.
Current Operations and Passenger Footfall
Berhampur station handles over 162 trains connecting to major cities across the country, serving approximately 25,000 passengers daily. The redevelopment is expected to significantly enhance the passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Local Committee Applauds Move
The Southern Odisha Joint Railway Development Action Committee has expressed gratitude to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for approving the redevelopment works, which have been a long-standing demand of the committee. Committee Convener Saroj Ranjan Pattnaik stated, We hope the work will be completed as per the scheduled period.
Additional Demands Raised
The committee has also urged the minister to grant financial approval for other critical projects, including the establishment of a coaching depot at Golanthara near Berhampur. They have requested the construction of new railway lines: Berhampur-Rairakhol (Sambalpur), Gopalpur-Rayagada (Singapore road), and Gopalpur-Talcher. These lines would serve areas currently lacking rail connectivity, potentially boosting regional development and economic growth.
