Odisha’s Brahmapur Railway Station renovation facing persistent setbacks?

Modernisation works have begun at Odisha’s one of the oldest Brahmapur Railway Station in Ganjam district, following years of public demand. However, questions linger regarding the completion timeline, sources said on Sunday.

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This railway station has been at the centre of sustained calls for upgrades to an international standard.

Dakshina Odisha Milita Kriyanusthan Committee (a local outfit) has criticised the progress, voicing concerns that the renovation is not advancing as promised. “We are yet to see significant changes,” a committee spokesperson stated, reflecting the community’s frustration over the railway station’s allegedly slow pace of development.

Local outfit resents 'pseudo' development plan of ECoR

“A fund of Rs 11 crore was allocated in 2016 for the development project and they (railway authorities) are daydreaming with the money. It is a matter of distress. Where individuals are constructing houses at this cost, what would they do with this much of the fund? We want they should bring this project under ARSS scheme, and similar to the NAC-2 provisions should sanction at least Rs 300-400 crore,” the outfit convener Saroj Patnaik stated.

Besides, recent inspections by senior railway officials have not dispelled public doubts, with allegations of neglect in fundamental improvement still persisting. The outfit specifically demanded a fifth platform and enhanced coaching depot facilities as essential upgrades.

The General Manager of East Coast Railway (ECoR) in Bhubaneswar recently acknowledged community feedback, confirming modifications to the initial plans of renovation. The revised designs aim to introduce better amenities and an improved layout, enhancing the passenger experience.

ECoR General Manager has an answer

“To a great extent, we have tried to amalgamate the existing building which has a unique church-like look with the new building and accordingly prepared a fresh structural design. Thereby, we have attempted to retain the previous building’s typical characters and improve the facilities for passengers,” ECoR General Manager Parmeshwar Funkwal said.

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Despite assurance from railway authorities, the pace and scope of changes at Brahmapur Railway Station continue to be kept under scrutiny among residents.