Over Rs 22 crore for redevelopment of Hirakud Railway Station in Odisha: ECoR

In a significant move to modernise and revitalise railway infrastructure in Western Odisha, Indian Railways has sanctioned Rs 22.87 crore for the comprehensive redevelopment of Hirakud Railway Station under the national Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, stated the East Coast Railway (ECoR) on its X handle.

Notably, the initiative is part of a larger Rs 332 crore project covering 22 stations across six districts in Odisha.

Key Features of the Redevelopment Plan

According to the ECoR post, the Hirakud station will undergo a series of upgrades designed to enhance both functionality and passenger convenience. These include:

- A 12-meter-wide Foot Over Bridge (FOB) to ensure smoother passenger movement.

- Two Passenger Lifts to facilitate easier mobility, especially for the elderly and differently-abled travellers.

- Improved Toilets for better sanitation standards.

- Coach Indication Boards to provide real-time train information.

- Inclusive infrastructure with Divyangjan-friendly features, ensuring accessibility for all.

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Part of a Larger Regional Modernisation Drive

The redevelopment of Hirakud is among several projects in districts such as Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Bolangir, and Kalahandi, with notable allocations like Rs 23.76 crore for Sambalpur and Rs 35.79 crore for Titilagarh.

The development projects here will focus on constructing new station buildings, expanding platforms, and upgrading ticketing systems.

Enhanced safety measures, including raised platforms, widened FOBs, and surveillance systems, will also be implemented across the selected stations. Additionally, accessibility features and inclusive amenities like modern waiting lounges, high-speed Wi-Fi, and GPS-enabled clocks will cater to a diverse passenger base.

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Overall, the enhanced rail infrastructure is also likely to improve connectivity to remote areas, stimulating overall economic growth in the region.