Work to modernise Chamarajanagar railway station under the Amrit Bharat programme is in its final stages and is expected to be completed by February, contractors have confirmed. The upgrade will expand the station’s capacity and introduce a range of passenger facilities designed to improve comfort and accessibility for travellers.
The Bengaluru-based contractor MVV Narayan said that most civil works are nearly finished. The project, which began in the latter part of 2023, includes platform extension, upgraded passenger waiting areas, a landscaped precinct, a concrete approach road, a portico and vehicle parking. These improvements are intended to transform the modest station into a modern Amrit Bharat facility capable of handling longer trains and higher passenger volumes.
Key features of the Chamarajanagar railway station upgrade
The upgrade will extend the platform to accommodate 23-coach trains, addressing a long-standing capacity constraint. A new, well-appointed waiting hall will provide sheltered seating and basic amenities for passengers. The station precinct will receive landscaping to create a cleaner, more attractive environment and a new concrete approach road will improve vehicular access.
To improve last-mile connectivity and pedestrian safety, the scheme includes a portico and organised vehicle parking. Importantly, an additional overhead footbridge linking tracks has been built, and it will include both stairs and a lift to ensure step-free access between platforms for elderly and differently-abled passengers.
Officials said some elements of the schedule slipped because of electrification works on the route. The station modernisation was delayed to synchronise with the electrification programme, but with those works nearing completion the contractor expects to complete the Amrit Bharat station works by the end of January or during February.
The Chamarajanagar line has its origins in the era of the Mysore kingdom, when the route was originally laid as a metre gauge track. It was converted to broad gauge in 2008, improving connectivity between Chamarajanagar and the wider rail network. The latest upgrade responds to continuing growth in passenger demand and the need for more robust station infrastructure.
Beyond the convenience for local travellers, the upgraded station is likely to have broader economic benefits. A longer platform and improved facilities allow for the introduction of longer trains, which can increase passenger throughput and reduce congestion. Better access and parking can also support local commerce and ease travel for visitors to the region.
By upgrading smaller stations such as Chamarajanagar to Amrit Bharat standards, Indian Railways aims to raise the level of passenger service across the network. For residents of Chamarajanagar, the modernised station will offer greater comfort and accessibility, while the infrastructure improvements will help integrate the town more effectively into regional transport routes.
Contractors and railway officials will continue final inspections and commissioning tests in the coming weeks. If those proceed without issue, passengers can expect the renovated Chamarajanagar railway station to open for regular use following the formal completion and handover.
Key Takeaways:
- Chamarajanagar railway station upgrade is expected to finish by February, boosting capacity and passenger amenities.
- Platform extension to accommodate 23-coach trains, improved waiting halls, landscaped precincts and parking nearing completion.
- New overhead footbridge with lift provides step-free access between tracks; delays were caused by electrification works.
