Bhagalpur: Construction of a modular waiting hall at Bhagalpur railway station is set to begin after the Eastern Railway General Manager’s approval, with officials targeting completion before Chhath Puja.
The Railway Board has approved the design prepared by RITES, while the final go-ahead from the GM’s office in Kolkata is awaited. The facility is planned in the circulating area near Gate No. 1.
Two-Storey Holding Area Planned
The proposed holding area will be built over the existing bike parking site. According to the plan, the two-storey structure will cover around 2,400 square metres and cost about Rs 10 crore.
The facility will include seating, train display boards and restrooms. General ticket counters will also operate inside the holding area, with passengers allowed to enter after purchasing their tickets.
A separate entry route is planned for passengers with reserved tickets to access the platforms.
Facility Aimed At Festival Crowds
Passenger numbers at Bhagalpur station rise significantly during major festivals. Officials estimate an additional 30,000 to 35,000 passengers a day during Chhath Puja, 20,000 to 25,000 during Holi and around 10,000 to 12,000 during the wedding season.
The station handles 108 trains a day in both directions. On regular days, passenger footfall is estimated at around 50,000 to 55,000.
Officials expect the new holding area to reduce congestion in the station’s circulating area and make movement towards the platforms easier during peak periods.
Work On FOB And Platforms
Officials said platforms other than Platform 1 have limitations in terms of length and width. The staircases of the Foot Over Bridge connecting Platforms 2 and 3 are also relatively narrow.
Work is underway to widen the stairs of the central FOB and install a lift. Railway authorities are also implementing plans to extend platforms to accommodate trains with up to 24 coaches.
The proposed modular waiting hall is expected to provide additional space for passengers while helping railway authorities regulate entry and movement during periods of heavy rush.
