Redevelopment of railway stations under ABSS project progressing fast

After completing the redevelopment two railway stations in Chennai recently, the Southern Railway is speeding up the renovation work in a few more railway stations. It plans to complete the redevelopment of four more railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) project by March next year. The ABSS project was initiated in 17 railway stations, of which two railway stations were redeveloped and inaugurated. The two stations were St. Thomas Mount and Sullurpetta. Sharing details of the progress of the ABSS, a senior official of the Chennai division, said the four railway stations of Park, Guindy, Chennai Beach and Guduvanchery, are witnessing significant progress in the redevelopment work, with several civil works completed along with commissioning of lifts. In Park Railway Station, except for the new facade and shelter installation in a small section near Platform 1, all other works like the paving of new platforms, ticket counters, construction of new toilets and lifts, have been completed. The official said, redevelopment works are in progress simultaneously at Jolarpettai, Gummidipoondi, Thiruttani, Arakkonam, Tiruvallur, Ambattur and Perambur. The redevelopment project aims to enhance passenger amenities through a modern facade development from the present drab environment, faster accessibility, and ensure the safety of passengers. The upgrade aims to improve the overall visual appeal of the station. The provision of additional lifts and escalators aims to ensure a seamless and barrier-free movement for all passengers, including senior citizens and Divyangjan, and the creation of improved parking facilities to support better last-mile connectivity. S. Arunkumar, a regular commuter, said the the redeveloped Park Railway Station has no parking space for commuters. He said the railway station is an important transport hub as commuters from Park Town and Sowcarpet areas use this station to board the suburban trains. However, the absence of parking space causes hardships to commuters using private vehicles. The Southern Railway, apart from installing lifts and escalators in railway stations executed through ABSS, has installed lifts in Ennore, Minjur, Potheri, Maraimalai Nagar, Nayudupeta, Palavanthangal, Annanur, Ambur, Vaniyambadi, Puttur and Kadambattur. Published - December 26, 2025 05:07 am IST

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