Guindy and St Thomas Mount railway stations in Chennai are set to undergo a major transformation, promising a new look and improved facilities for commuters. The redevelopment project, known as the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, aims to enhance the overall experience of passengers and create multi-modal hubs along the Chennai-Tambaram-Chengalpet route.
Starting with Guindy station, several upgrades are underway to provide better amenities. A circulating area and booking office are being constructed on the GST roadside, while the Race Course side entry will witness the construction of a revamped building. Additionally, the station will be equipped with three lifts and CCTV cameras for enhanced security. The platforms will also receive a new roof, ensuring protection from the elements, and public toilets will be built at both entries. With an estimated cost of Rs 13.50 crore, the project aims to cater to the station’s daily influx of around 60,000 passengers.
Meanwhile, St Thomas Mount railway station is undergoing its own set of improvements. A new second entry, complete with a booking office and dedicated parking for two-wheelers and four-wheelers, is being constructed from the metro rail station side. The station’s circulating area is being redeveloped, and the roof of the platforms will be replaced to ensure durability. Additionally, a new roof will be installed for platform 1A. This redevelopment plan, with a projected cost of Rs 14.15 crore, accounts for the current daily footfall of 30,000 passengers, which is expected to increase once the MRTS line from Velachery is connected to the adjacent metro rail station. Furthermore, Chennai Metro Rail is in the process of constructing another line as part of the second phase.
The redevelopment of Guindy and St Thomas Mount stations is part of a larger initiative to revamp fifteen railway stations in the Chennai division under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme’s first phase. By providing modernized facilities and a fresh aesthetic appeal, these enhancements aim to make commuting more convenient and comfortable for passengers.
The efforts to improve Chennai’s railway stations come as a boon for the city’s residents and travelers. The upgrades, including the construction of new entry points, expanded parking facilities, improved roof structures, and the installation of lifts and CCTV cameras, demonstrate a commitment to ensuring a seamless travel experience. With these developments, Guindy and St Thomas Mount stations are poised to become not only efficient but also attractive transportation hubs.
As the redevelopment plans continue, commuters can look forward to a transformed travel experience at these vital railway stations, where functionality, safety, and aesthetics converge. It is envisioned that by March 2024, the new look and enhanced facilities will be fully realized, bringing much-needed convenience and comfort to the thousands of passengers who rely on these stations each day.
The journey towards modernizing Guindy and St Thomas Mount railway stations is an important step in Chennai’s ongoing efforts to improve its transportation infrastructure. The implementation of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme highlights the prioritization of commuter needs and the commitment to creating better intermodal connectivity. With a clear focus on passenger convenience, these redevelopment initiatives promise a brighter future for Chennai’s railway network, setting the stage for further enhancements and seamless travel experiences.
