The ambitious redevelopment of Chamarajanagar railway station is racing towards a February completion deadline, with officials directing agencies to wrap up all pending work on a war footing. The project, executed under the central government's Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, aims to transform the facility into a modern transit hub to decongest Mysuru and improve connectivity to the border district.
Final Push for February Deadline
A high-level team from South Western Railway (SWR), led by Mysuru Divisional Railway Manager Mudith Mittal, recently conducted a detailed inspection of the site. The officials have issued clear instructions to the executing agency to ensure all remaining tasks are finished within the stipulated time. Mysuru Divisional Finance Manager Prithvi Ullatthi confirmed that approximately 90% of the work, encompassing major civil and electrical components, is already done. The focus now is on completing the final beautification and ancillary works by the end of February.
Key Features of the Revamped Station
The transformation of Chamarajanagar station is being carried out in two phases, with each phase costing Rs 12 crore, making the total project cost Rs 24 crore. The station, which initially had just a single platform, has been significantly expanded. Key upgrades include:
- Extension to both sides with two full-length tracks capable of handling 24-coach trains.
- Construction of separate, well-equipped waiting rooms for men and women with toilet facilities.
- A new reservation room and an expanded concourse area for passenger comfort.
- Addition of a cafeteria and catering stall.
- Installation of modern coach guidance display boards and comprehensive signage.
- Development of a dedicated parking lot for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers in front of the station.
- Widening of station approach roads and enhancement of the station building's façade.
Broader Impact on Connectivity and Economy
The redevelopment is not merely an infrastructure upgrade but a strategic move with wider implications. Once operational, the enhanced station will enable the extension of additional train services, thereby reducing congestion at the busy Mysuru railway station. The project is squarely focused on promoting tourism, supporting industrial growth, and improving overall connectivity to the border district.
Local stakeholders have welcomed the progress. Maheshprabu, General Secretary of the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha's Chamarajanagar chapter, highlighted that the two-track development and station modernization will facilitate trade, commerce, and give a boost to local industries and farmers' produce.
Before the station is opened for public use, senior railway officials will conduct a final inspection followed by a mandatory safety trial run. The timely completion of this project stands as a critical step in upgrading rail infrastructure in the region and fostering economic development.
