In a significant move to tackle overcrowding, the Western Railway (WR) has inaugurated a major new infrastructure project at one of its key suburban stations. A spacious elevated deck has been commissioned at Vasai Road station, promising smoother and safer movement for the thousands of daily commuters.
A New Pathway Over the Platforms
The newly opened facility is an elevated deck measuring 60 meters in length and 10 meters in width. It has been strategically constructed over platforms six and seven at Vasai Road station. This initiative, executed by the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC), was officially opened for public use on Tuesday.
The primary goal of this structure is to decongest the station area and enhance passenger circulation. By providing an overhead pathway, the deck allows commuters to move seamlessly across the busy platforms without adding to the footfall at ground level.
Design Features and Expected Impact
The deck is equipped with 3-meter-wide staircases for easy access. Its design focuses on creating an alternative circulation route, which is expected to be particularly beneficial during the morning and evening peak hours when the station experiences its highest footfall.
A spokesperson for Western Railway emphasized the safety aspect of the new development. "The new deck will enhance commuter safety," the official stated, highlighting how the structure will help manage crowd density and reduce the risk of accidents on crowded platforms.
Benefits for Daily Commuters
The introduction of this elevated deck is set to bring tangible improvements to the daily travel experience. Commuters can now expect:
- Reduced congestion on platform staircases and waiting areas.
- Faster and smoother movement between platforms, especially for those catching connecting trains.
- Improved overall safety by dispersing crowd pressure during rush hours.
This project is part of ongoing efforts by the railway authorities to upgrade passenger amenities and infrastructure on the busy Mumbai suburban network. The Vasai Road station, being a crucial junction, handles a massive volume of traffic, and this new deck is a direct response to the persistent issue of crowding.
The commissioning of the deck marks a positive step towards modernizing station facilities and prioritizing passenger convenience and well-being in the city's lifeline rail system.
