Tambaram Railway Station Set for Major ₹890 Crore Transformation
The Railway Land Development Authority (RLDA) is pushing forward with an ambitious ₹890 crore makeover plan for Tambaram railway station in Chennai. This project aims to transform the station into a contemporary transit hub. RLDA recently conducted a stakeholder meeting to discuss key developments under the public-private partnership model.
Enhanced Capacity and Infrastructure
Officials confirm that tenders for the project will be issued shortly. They expect completion within three years. The upgrade will significantly increase the station's passenger handling capacity. Currently, Tambaram accommodates 13,500 passengers during peak hours. After redevelopment, this number will surge to 28,750.
Infrastructure improvements are a core part of the plan. The number of railway tracks will rise from 12 to 16. Three additional platforms will be constructed. Railways is already building a new platform that passengers can access directly from the east entrance. This design eliminates the need for foot overbridges and escalators at that point.
Broader Modernization and Future Plans
A railway official explained that the Tambaram redevelopment is part of a wider modernization effort, similar to the work at Egmore station. "When finished, Tambaram's handling capacity will exceed Egmore's," the official stated. "Egmore has space limitations, but Tambaram has available land. Future plans include operating more express trains directly from Tambaram, making this redevelopment essential."
The project also includes several other features:
- Additional foot overbridges for better passenger flow.
- A concourse at the first level for waiting areas.
- New facades for both the east and west sides of the station to improve aesthetics.
Community Feedback and Concerns
Transport activist Dayanand Krishnan highlighted Tambaram's current usage, noting it handles at least 3.4 crore passengers annually. He emphasized the need for better passenger amenities. "The RLDA plan heavily focuses on employees' quarters and cargo handling," Krishnan pointed out. "However, the station requires improved accessibility, more parking lots, and a proper concourse for passengers. RLDA proposed an air concourse at Rani Kamlapati Station in Bhopal, but not for Tambaram."
P Viswanathan, convenor of the Chitlapakkam residents' welfare associations' coordination committee, urged authorities to utilize the vast land at Tambaram station more effectively in the redevelopment.
Official Responses and Future Prospects
Railway officials responded that RLDA's proposed plan is not final. It will undergo modifications based on input from all stakeholders, including state agencies. They also mentioned that similar makeovers could be considered for Avadi and Coimbatore stations, though no firm plans exist yet.
This redevelopment promises to modernize a key Chennai transit point, addressing growing passenger demands and enhancing urban connectivity.
