29.7.17

Mumbai suburban railway's re-development proposal

Eighteen suburban railway stations across Mumbai are set to get a new lease of life as soon as the Railway Board gives the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation's proposal a green signal. “The most valuable real estate anywhere is a railway station where there is a captive audience. Stations have a huge commercial value because so many people use them. The challenge is how to monetize this invaluable asset and generate money for Railways and provide amenities for passengers,“ said a senior railway officer involved in the project.

Hence to monetise on these valuable assets, the MRVC has come with the proposal wherein phase-wise stations will be chosen for redevelopment and the contractors will be awarded FSI to operate on spaces on the platforms. According to sources, MRVC's proposal will include relocation of stalls, improving the crowd circulating area, better aesthetics, top-quality waiting rooms, digital signage, escalators, elevators, self help ticketing counters, executive lounges, luggage screening machines, and free Wi-Fi. “Stations will also have a food plaza, a commercial complex, clinics in the concourse,“ the officer said. The proposal has seamless commuter experience at heart, he added.

As per the proposal, railways have chosen six stations on the Western line which include Grant Road, Lower Parel, Elphinstone, Khar, Mira Road and Bhayandar; nine on the Central line including Byculla, Sion , Parel, Kalwa, Kanjur Marg among others; and three on the Harbour line ­ Chembur, Sewri and Wadala. “Safety booths will be provided near all ladies' coaches on the platforms,“ said a senior officer. Once the Board approves the proposal, the MRVC will prepare a Detailed Project Report based on each station.

The proposal will be undertaken through the PPP model.

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