Sonepur Railway Station Transformation Begins With Major Investment
Sonepur, the town globally famous for hosting Asia's largest cattle fair, is witnessing a significant infrastructure upgrade. The Indian Railways has initiated comprehensive redevelopment of Sonepur railway station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. This ambitious project carries a total budget exceeding twenty-four crore rupees.
Project Progress and Key Components
Divisional Railway Manager Amit Saran confirmed substantial progress on the ground. More than half of the physical work for the main station redevelopment stands completed already. The initiative focuses on modernization, passenger convenience, improved aesthetics, and enhanced operational efficiency. These improvements will match Sonepur's status as a major cultural and transport center in Bihar.
The ongoing works under ABSS include several major components. The station façade building receives an allocation of seven point seven three crore rupees. Construction of a new foot over bridge commands fourteen crore rupees. Passenger amenities get two point six eight crore rupees for comprehensive upgrades.
Additional Developments Planned
Railway authorities have planned further enhancements for the station. A second station exit will be developed at a cost exceeding nineteen crore rupees. Platforms numbered three, four, and five will undergo refurbishing with an allocation of one point four five crore rupees. These additional works total twenty-one point four three crore rupees and feature in the next work plan under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
Current activities include landscaping and painting works. These efforts give the station a modern and visually appealing appearance. Platform upgrades specifically target improved safety, better accessibility, and enhanced passenger comfort throughout the facility.
World-Class Amenities for Travelers
The railways is investing two point six eight crore rupees to provide world-class passenger amenities. Travelers will benefit from improved waiting halls with better seating arrangements. Modern toilet facilities will offer enhanced hygiene standards. Better lighting throughout the station will improve visibility and security.
Digital information systems will keep passengers updated about train schedules and platform information. Upgraded circulating areas will ensure smooth movement within the station premises. All these improvements aim to create a comfortable and efficient travel experience for every visitor.
Major Infrastructure Achievement
A significant highlight of the project involves the foot over bridge construction. Engineers have completed a separate FOB with an impressive twelve-meter width. This wide bridge will significantly ease passenger movement across different platforms. It will reduce congestion during busy periods and improve safety measures.
The enhanced foot over bridge proves particularly valuable during peak hours and festive seasons. Sonepur experiences heavy passenger traffic during its famous cattle fair. The new infrastructure will handle this increased flow efficiently.
Vision for a Model Station
As the divisional headquarters of East Central Railway, Sonepur station receives special attention. Authorities are developing it as the most modern station within the entire division. Once completed, the station will offer all requisite facilities aligning with contemporary railway standards.
The Divisional Railway Manager expressed confidence about the project's outcome. He stated the redeveloped station will serve as a model facility under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. This transformation will elevate Sonepur's transportation infrastructure to match its cultural significance.
