In a significant step toward modernising railway infrastructure in Odisha, East Coast Railway (ECoR) General Manager Parmeshwar Funkwal conducted an in-depth inspection of the ongoing redevelopment projects at Bhubaneswar and Cuttack Railway Stations.
The visit focused on evaluating the progress of enhancements aimed at elevating passenger amenities to world-class standards.
During the tour, Funkwal engaged directly with railway officials, emphasising the critical importance of adhering to stringent safety protocols at construction sites. “Safety must remain paramount as we push forward with these transformative works,” he reportedly stressed, ensuring that all activities are executed systematically without compromising worker or passenger well-being.
The redevelopment initiatives are part of ECoR’s broader commitment to improving travel experiences, safety, and convenience for commuters. Both stations are being revamped to serve as modern hubs, featuring state-of-the-art facilities that cater to diverse passenger needs. Key highlights of the projects include redesigned entry points on both sides for seamless access, improved traffic flow with designated pickup and drop-off zones, dedicated parking for ambulances and vehicles, and widened approach roads.
Funkwal personally reviewed critical areas such as circulating zones and passenger movement pathways, assessing the integration of advanced features like air concourses, foot over bridges (FOBs), integrated public announcement systems, fire alarm and protection mechanisms, food stalls, specialised provisions for Divyangjan (persons with disabilities), retiring rooms, and comprehensive CCTV surveillance. These upgrades are expected to not only streamline operations but also position the stations as attractive, efficient gateways for travelers in the region.
