The ambitious Rs 300 crore renovation project aimed at transforming Gaya railway station into a world-class transit hub is facing a stark reality check. The very platform from where the semi-high-speed 22304 Gaya-Howrah Vande Bharat Express commences its journey presents a contrasting sight of stray cattle, street dogs, and piles of uncollected garbage.
Renovation Gloss Overshadowed by Persistent Problems
This unsightly scene persists even as a substantial portion of the station's upgrade is complete. The presence of these elements starkly contradicts the official vision of a modern facility and has drawn sharp criticism from daily commuters and railway users. Deepak Kumar, a rail user, pointed out that this situation reflects poorly on the management's work culture and sensibilities, especially for a station of such strategic importance.
While the issue of stray cattle at Gaya station is not novel, it has become more glaring against the backdrop of the new, upgraded ambience. Animals are frequently seen defecating on the platforms, severely undermining basic hygiene standards. The problem has been further highlighted by the dumping of garbage near the area where the executive class coaches of the prestigious Vande Bharat Express are usually stationed. This train operates six days a week between Gaya and Howrah, skipping only Thursdays.
Safety Concerns and Official Responses
Passengers have expressed fear and discomfort, particularly women and children, due to the stray animals. A Howrah-bound traveler noted that such carelessness strips the place of its intended ambience and glamour.
Vinod Kumar, the Superintendent of Gaya railway station, acknowledged the reality of the cattle and dog menace. He attributed the problem primarily to breaches in the boundary wall at several points due to ongoing construction, which allows easy entry for these "four-footed intruders." He also placed part of the blame on passengers who discard leftover food on the platforms, attracting the animals. Kumar emphasized the need for passenger cooperation to maintain platform sanctity and assured that the garbage accumulation issue is being addressed seriously.
Echoing the urgency, Kaushalendra Pratap, a member of the Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee (ZRUCC), stated that the matter requires immediate attention as it concerns both cleanliness and passenger safety, with risks of cattle attacks and dog bites.
The Promise of a World-Class Facility
The renovation blueprint for Gaya station is extensive and promises a significant upgrade in passenger amenities. The plans include:
- A spacious concourse of approximately 6,400 square metres to manage crowd flow.
- Modern waiting halls and upgraded train announcement systems.
- High-speed Wi-Fi and clean, modern washrooms.
- Food stalls, ATM kiosks, and improved ticketing counters.
- 23 lifts and 11 escalators along with separate entry and exit gates for smoother movement.
Sources indicate that the entire renovation project is likely to be completed by the end of 2026. However, the current challenges highlight that infrastructure development must go hand-in-hand with effective daily management and public awareness to truly achieve a world-class travel experience.
