The long-awaited transformation of Visakhapatnam's (Vizag) railway station is finally poised to move from the drawing board to reality. After overcoming delays, the ambitious ₹500 crore redevelopment project is set to commence construction shortly, promising to turn the key transit hub into a world-class facility.
A Future-Proof Design for a Growing City
The revised plans, which have been forwarded to the Railway Board for final approval, showcase a forward-thinking design. The most significant upgrade is the expansion to 14 platforms and 16 railway lines, a substantial increase from the current capacity. Notably, the architectural vision now includes vertical expansion potential. While the initial construction will be a ground-plus-three structure, the foundations are being engineered to support a future vertical expansion of up to ground-plus-eleven floors, accommodating the city's long-term growth.
Significant preparatory work has already been completed. Authorities have spent nearly ₹20 crore on demolishing old structures, clearing the site for the new construction phase. The project, which was previously stalled due to litigation involving the contractor, has regained momentum following the intervention of local MP M. Sribharat, who recently met with the Union Railway Minister to expedite approvals.
Airport-Inspired Amenities and Passenger Comfort
The new station is designed to prioritize passenger experience and seamless movement. Drawing inspiration from modern airports, the entry and exit points will be strategically designed to prevent congestion, even during peak hours or VIP movements. Passenger amenities will see a major boost, with dedicated facilities for resting and overnight stays planned within the station complex.
The redevelopment will dramatically alter the station's layout. The smaller building on the western side will be dismantled to create space for new platforms. The primary, modern station building will be developed on the Gnanapuram (eastern) side. To connect both ends efficiently, an air bridge will link the eastern and western sections. Furthermore, the existing narrow Foot Over Bridges (FOBs), which are currently 3–3.5 metres wide, will be replaced with spacious structures at least 12 metres wide.
Logistics, Parking, and Connectivity Push
Addressing the perennial issue of parking, the project includes a dedicated facility with a capacity for 350 cars and 1,500 two-wheelers. Essential utility work, such as diverting drainage systems, is also part of the comprehensive plan. The final approval for the new designs is anticipated by January, with a targeted completion timeline of two years once work begins.
Concurrently, rail connectivity to Vizag is being enhanced separately. The construction of a third railway line between Duvvada and Visakhapatnam is underway and is expected to be finished by December 2026. During his inspection, MP Sribharat also advocated for retaining Vizag as a terminal station and requested the introduction of Vande Bharat train services connecting Visakhapatnam to Tirupati and Bengaluru, aiming to boost regional connectivity and convenience for passengers.
This massive infrastructure overhaul signifies a major leap for Visakhapatnam, aiming to equip the port city with a railway station that matches its strategic importance and caters to the future needs of millions of passengers.
