Ranchi Railway Station's Southern Redevelopment Set for March Completion
Ranchi railway division is on track to complete the ambitious redevelopment project on the southern side of Ranchi railway station by the end of March this year, according to Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Karuna Nidhi Singh. This significant infrastructure upgrade aims to transform the station into a world-class transportation hub, enhancing passenger experience with modern amenities and improved accessibility.
Project Overview and Timeline
The foundation stone for this Rs 447 crore redevelopment initiative was laid in July 2022 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Deoghar, marking a major infrastructure push in Jharkhand. DRM Singh confirmed that construction work on the southern side building has reached the finishing stage, with completion expected within the current financial year. Following this, attention will shift to the northern side, with the entire project anticipated to be operational by the end of 2027.
World-Class Facilities and Features
The redeveloped station will introduce numerous passenger-friendly facilities designed to create a comfortable and efficient travel environment. The southern building will feature:
- Separate entry and exit gates for streamlined passenger flow
- A vast parking area covering approximately 14,000 square metres
- Modern food courts and restaurants offering diverse dining options
- Well-equipped lounge areas for passenger comfort
- 10 new lifts and 17 escalators to assist divyang passengers and improve accessibility
- A mechanised parcel handling system for efficient cargo management
- An elevated concourse housing cafeterias, restaurants, and rest rooms
Architectural Design and Connectivity
Upon full completion, Ranchi railway station will boast two impressive three-storey buildings on its north and south sides. These structures will be seamlessly connected by a road overbridge, creating a unified and modern station complex. The strategic design ensures smooth passenger movement between different sections while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency.
Phased Implementation Strategy
The redevelopment follows a carefully planned phased approach. Once the southern building becomes operational, existing facilities will be shifted to the new structure. This transition will allow demolition of the current north side building, paving the way for the second phase of construction. DRM Singh expressed confidence that the northern side development will be ready for passenger use by 2027, completing the station's transformation into a contemporary transportation center.
This comprehensive redevelopment project represents a significant investment in Jharkhand's railway infrastructure, promising to elevate Ranchi's status as a key transportation node while providing passengers with international-standard facilities and services.
