The Financial commitment exceeding 22 crore rupees has been earmarked for the comprehensive redevelopment of Hirakud Railway Station, signalling a pivotal stride towards modernising Western Odisha’s crucial transport infrastructure.
This substantial investment, sanctioned under the national Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, positions Hirakud at the forefront of a larger 332 crore rupee initiative set to transform 22 stations across six districts of Odisha. The thrust of this ambitious undertaking extends beyond mere upgrades, aiming to foster equitable access, environmental stewardship, and enhanced regional connectivity. The transformative blueprint for Hirakud Station is meticulously designed to elevate passenger experience while embedding principles of sustainability and inclusivity. Central to the plan is the construction of a 12-meter-wide Foot Over Bridge, intended to streamline passenger flow and minimise congestion, a crucial element in promoting efficient and safe transit. Complementing this are two dedicated passenger lifts, a thoughtful provision aimed at significantly improving mobility for the elderly and differently-abled travellers, thereby ensuring a truly accessible public space. Further enhancements include modernised toilet facilities, reflecting a commitment to superior sanitation standards, and the integration of advanced Coach Indication Boards to provide real-time, accurate train information, empowering passengers with timely data. The overarching design ethos incorporates Divyangjan-friendly features, solidifying the station’s commitment to universal accessibility.
This strategic investment in Hirakud is part of a broader regional uplift, encompassing districts such as Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Bolangir, and Kalahandi. Notable allocations within this wider scheme include Rs 23.76 crore for Sambalpur and a substantial Rs 35.79 crore dedicated to Titilagarh, underscoring a holistic approach to regional railway development. The collective focus across these projects involves the construction of new station buildings, the strategic expansion of platforms to accommodate increasing passenger volumes, and a significant overhaul of ticketing systems to enhance efficiency and reduce wait times. Beyond structural enhancements, the redevelopment prioritises heightened safety measures. This includes the implementation of raised platforms to reduce boarding gaps, further widening of Foot Over Bridges to manage peak hour traffic, and the deployment of state-of-the-art surveillance systems, ensuring a secure environment for all commuters. The commitment to inclusivity is further manifested through the integration of modern waiting lounges, high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity, and GPS-enabled clocks, catering to the diverse needs of a modern passenger base. These advancements are poised to not only improve daily commutes but also foster a sense of comfort and digital integration for travellers.
Ultimately, the enhanced rail infrastructure is anticipated to catalyse broader socio-economic benefits, particularly by improving connectivity to previously underserved and remote areas. This improved access is expected to stimulate local economies, facilitate trade, and potentially attract new businesses, thereby contributing to the overall economic growth and equitable distribution of opportunities across the region. The emphasis on eco-friendly and sustainable practices embedded within the redevelopment plans positions these stations as crucial nodes in a future-proof, low-carbon transportation network for Odisha.
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