Mysore/Mysuru: The Mysuru Division of the South Western Railway (SWR) is set to enhance and develop the Mysuru City Railway Station into a world-class facility, with the anticipated commencement of the project in the coming month.

This information was conveyed by Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Shilpi Agarwal during a press conference at the Mysuru Divisional Office yesterday.

The upgrade of the Mysuru City Railway Station is part of a larger plan for world-class facilities and improved infrastructure. The DRM highlighted the ongoing techno-feasibility study for the yard development at the Station, a project that was initiated with the foundation stone laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Mysuru in June 2022. The techno-feasibility survey will be completed by this year-end and the goal is to transform the station into a world-class facility while preserving its heritage structure. The Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS), a transport consultancy and infrastructure development agency based in New Delhi, has been entrusted with the study, she added.

The Centre has allocated Rs. 780 crore for the expansion and modernisation and the Division will undertake the redevelopment and modernisation works, along with remodelling. Remodelling plans involve the addition of three platforms to the existing six, the creation of four stabling lines, four pit lines and one shunting neck.

New entrance near Railway Sports Grounds

Furthermore, a new entrance near the Railway Sports Grounds close to Vani Vilas Water Works (VVWW) is in the works, which will serve as the third entrance to the Station. Shilpi Agarwal also mentioned that the remodelled Ashokapuram Station will be inaugurated shortly, easing congestion at Mysuru City Station.

In the ongoing upgradation of 15 Railway Stations under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), works are being undertaken such as installation of end-to-end shelter over platforms, the creation of world-class lounges and the introduction of new furniture. These projects are slated for completion by June 2024. Additionally, Station-specific enhancements, such as escalators and lifts, are being implemented based on local requirements, she added.

Additionally, the DRM discussed the challenges related to track electrification on the Mysuru-Chamarajanagar section near the Mysore Airport, citing technical issues and the need to find a suitable solution. Amidst calls for track realignment, she pointed out that the land adjacent to the track also belongs to Airport Authorities and a survey is required to assess the extent of land for realignment, which may result in a detour.

The media interaction also touched upon the impact of Shakti Scheme, a Government initiative providing free rides to women on KSRTC buses.

The DRM noted a minimal effect on Railways, primarily affecting short-distance trains, with no notable impact on long-distance services. She mentioned that a comprehensive assessment of the scheme’s monetary impact was yet to be conducted.

Senior Divisional Commercial Manager J. Lohiteshwara and others were present at the press conference.