Vinod Bhat
The Chandigarh Railway Station is undergoing a major upgradation project, known as the Lighthouse Project, which will serve as a prototype for future railway stations in India. The project aims to streamline the design and construction process, incorporating modular solutions and prefabricated components to expedite construction without disrupting railway operations.
The construction industry is embracing modularity, driven by technological advancements and economic needs. Modular construction involves producing standardized building components off-site and assembling them on-location, resulting in reduced construction time, improved work quality, and minimized disruption to operations. This approach offers several advantages, such as speed of construction, cost efficiency, and simplified complexity.
The Chandigarh Railway Station redevelopment includes state-of-the-art station buildings, an air-concourse, foot over bridges, a through roof, and improved parking areas. The station buildings will feature various facilities, including ticket counters, retail shops, office spaces, and lounges. An air-concourse will serve as a waiting and retail area for departing passengers, connecting the station buildings. Two foot over bridges will be constructed to facilitate passenger movement, and a through roof will cover the air-concourse and foot over bridges.
The project also includes the development of additional parking areas to accommodate different categories of vehicles. The existing platform sheds will be replaced with modern and improved designs, ensuring a bird-free and aesthetically pleasing environment. Other development works, such as the installation of lifts and escalators, solar panels, and road improvements, are also part of the project.
The progress of the Chandigarh Railway Station redevelopment is well underway, with the completion of foundation work, framework, fabrication, and other construction activities. The external development work and refurbishment of platforms are also progressing smoothly.
Once completed, the upgraded Chandigarh Railway Station will provide a more efficient and comfortable experience for passengers. The modular construction approach employed in this project sets a precedent for future railway station developments in India, promising shorter construction timelines, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced quality control.
