Sir,

You have rightly pointed out that autos are affecting the movement of the public near the City Railway Station (Autos hijack bus bays in SOM dated Nov. 20).

I frequently visit the station to board a train, drop off or pick up a guest. Travel by train has become increasingly popular lately due to the large number of trains available.

There are very trains like the Vande Bharat Express and the Shatabdi Express, which cater to those who can afford higher fares and there are passenger trains for the ordinary masses. So it is no wonder that traffic towards the Railway Station is always high.

I see that the Railway authorities have been continuously upgrading the Station to facilitate passengers.                  Elevators, escalators and subways have all been installed for their convenience.

Battery-operated vehicles are available for seniors and the physically challenged. The construction of the new exit road, passing the booking counters and avoiding the earlier U-turn, has made exiting the Station smoother. The opening of the west-side gate has also made access easier for the public.

However, there are still some shortcomings that need to be addressed. The pre-paid auto booths at both gates operate irregularly, leading to passengers being fleeced by autowallahs.

Moreover, autos roam around the Station hunting for passengers, hampering the movement of those rushing to board trains. This menace needs to be curbed by the Police on duty.

I also find the two old pillars at the entrance to be major obstructions for vehicles entering the Station. Besides the Circle, there is an auto stand right there. I do not understand the need for this auto stand when a well-planned prepaid stand already exists inside. It has become a major choke point. The broad pillars also occupy considerable space, adding to the woes of those hurrying into the Station. I hope the Railway authorities will remove them in the interest of the public.

There is also a space, part of which is occupied by the Congress Party for its office. This area could be reclaimed and converted into a mini-bus stand or used to accommodate the existing auto stand near the Circle. This would free the Circle and entrance from auto congestion.

And how I wish there had been a Bus Stand in the J.K. Grounds itself, right in front of the Railway Station. This would have greatly benefited the public.

Currently, traffic comes to a halt whenever a bus stops near the Circle to pick up passengers. I hope my suggestions will be considered by the decision-makers.

– P.L. Jothindra, Ramakrishnanagar, 1.11.2025

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