Ranchi: The redevelopment work on the south side of Ranchi railway station has missed its July completion deadline, delaying the opening of the new public facility once again. Ranchi divisional railway manager (DRM) Karuna Nidhi Singh had earlier told TOI that the facility would become operational in July, after the division had previously aimed to finish the same work by March this year.Multiple attempts to seek a response from Singh on the latest delay went unanswered.The foundation stone of the Rs 447 crore station redevelopment project was laid virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Deoghar in July 2022. The overall plan includes two three-storied buildings on the north and south sides of the station, connected by a road overbridge to ease passenger movement.The redeveloped station is expected to offer a world-class ambience and several upgraded passenger amenities. The new building will have separate entry and exit gates, along with a parking area of about 14,000 square metres, intended to end the haphazard vehicle parking currently seen at the station. It will also include food courts, restaurants and well-equipped lounge areas so that passengers can spend their waiting time without inconvenience.“There will be 10 new lifts, 17 escalators, to ease out the movement of divyang passengers, a mechanised parcel handling system and an elevated concourse for house cafeterias, restaurants, rest rooms, and other amenities. The railway station was selected by the Railway Board in 2017 among the 22 stations across the country which were to be converted into world-class stations,” the DRM said earlier.After the south side work is completed, redevelopment of the north side will begin. Once both sides are finished, the Ranchi railway station is expected to get a new-look layout with modern facilities aimed at improving passenger access, comfort and overall station management. The delay marks another slippage in the much-awaited upgrade schedule for the capital. Officials have not announced a revised deadline.
