Bengaluru's Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) at Byappanahalli is poised for a significant enhancement aimed at improving passenger experience. The South Western Railway (SWR) has sanctioned a Rs 17-crore project to construct a new three-storey block at the terminal, which was originally inaugurated in 2022 at a cost of Rs 314 crore.
Details of the Planned Upgrade
According to railway officials, the foundation work for the new structure is nearly complete, with the main structural construction expected to commence in the coming year. The new building will span an area of 875 square metres and is designed to offer a range of passenger-centric amenities.
The ground floor will be dedicated to a new ticket booking office, streamlining the reservation process. The first floor will feature two spacious waiting halls, with one reserved exclusively for female passengers, enhancing safety and comfort. The second floor will host dormitories and retiring rooms, offering weary travellers a place to rest. These rooms will be bookable both online and offline using passengers' PNR numbers.
Persistent Maintenance Challenges
While the upgrade signals a positive step forward, the terminal continues to grapple with upkeep problems. A recent inspection highlighted several maintenance lapses, including visible stains on the tiled platforms, suggesting irregular cleaning schedules. Furthermore, sections of the modular foot overbridge have started to show signs of rust, raising concerns about long-term durability.
Despite being designed with airport-like features such as air conditioning, help desks, and food courts, the terminal's environment has drawn complaints. Vendors and passengers have noted that the fully enclosed building often feels uncomfortably warm. "The air conditioning seems inconsistent. It worked initially, but now the interior is quite warm," shared a food court vendor.
Calls for Better Connectivity and Upkeep
Passenger associations have pointed out additional areas for improvement. The Bangalore Metro & Suburban Passengers Association has emphasised the need for better connectivity between SMVT and the nearby Swami Vivekananda Road metro station, especially for passengers arriving or departing during late-night hours.
Rajesh Bhat, a frequent passenger, acknowledged the station's modern infrastructure but stressed the urgency of addressing maintenance. "Many migrants travelling to other states use this terminal. While the infrastructure is good, consistent upkeep is crucial for their comfort," he remarked.
The Rs 17-crore expansion project represents an investment in Bengaluru's rail infrastructure, but its success will ultimately depend on SWR's ability to marry new facilities with rigorous and reliable daily maintenance.
