Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated 5 railway stations in Tamil Nadu that were redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS).
3 stations falling under Madurai Railway Division – Ambasamudram Railway Station, Palani Railway Station and Paramakudi Railway Station, 1 each under Salem Division (Namakkal) and Tiruchirappalli Division Vellalore Cantonemnt) that received a new makeover got inaugurated.
All the 5 stations that got inaugurated began getting redeveloped in 2023. Interestingly, the Coimbatore North Railway Station (Vadakovai Junction) also started getting a facelift in 2023 at a valuation of Rs.11.5 crore but the city is still awaiting for its completion.
Works began in August 2023, and it is almost over. The upgrade includes new waiting hall, parking space, foot-over-bridge, lift facility to reach the FOBs, digital rail info boards, seats for passengers etc. The entrance has received a fresh look with 2 arches and so does the main reception area.
Podanur Junction which is also getting redeveloped under ABSS at a cost of Rs. 24 crore, has received significant upgrades. Its main terminal building has been renewed and booking office has been renovated .
Integrated Passenger Information System is provided in the premises. The flooring has been improved in platform 1, seating facilities have been modernized, lift facility are nearly done, restrooms have been improved with better access for persons with disabilities.
Passengers are waiting for work completion and inaugural of these 2 stations.
