The iconic New Delhi Railway Station is all set to enter a new chapter, as preparations begin for its much-awaited redevelopment. Starting March next year, a portion of the station will be demolished to pave the way for a modern, passenger-friendly infrastructure upgrade. The company awarded the project tender has already initiated groundwork.
As part of the project, the Ministry of Railways is planning to shift several train services to nearby stations during the redevelopment phase to ease congestion and maintain operational continuity.
Trains to Be Diverted to Anand Vihar and Shakur Basti
Railway officials have confirmed that plans are underway to relocate some train services from New Delhi Station to other terminals. Two new platforms have already been constructed at Anand Vihar, while Shakur Basti has been prepared to accommodate trains heading towards Punjab and other northern destinations.
Services towards eastern states will be operated from Anand Vihar to avoid disruption during the redevelopment phase.
Holding Area for Unreserved Passengers to Be Ready by October
To manage the usual passenger rush, especially among unreserved ticket holders, a dedicated holding area is under construction near the Ajmeri Gate side of the station. Slated for completion by October, the holding zone will serve as a waiting area until trains arrive, helping reduce crowding inside the main terminal.
Demolition to Begin from Paharganj Side, Work to Be Completed in 45 Months
The redevelopment project, which was announced by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Union Budget 2023, aims to transform the station into a modern transit hub. Demolition and reconstruction will begin from the Paharganj side, with a target to complete the entire project in 45 months.
Alongside new buildings, the plan includes the construction of seven flyovers around the station to improve road connectivity and address traffic bottlenecks.
Four-Phase Platform Redevelopment Plan Finalized
The station’s 16 platforms will be redeveloped in four phases to minimize service disruption:
| Phase | Platforms Redeveloped | Operational Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Platforms 1 to 5 | Demolition and rebuilding |
| Phase 2 | Platforms 6 to 9 | Platforms 10–16 to remain active |
| Phase 3 | Platforms 10 to 13 | Platforms 1–9 return to service |
| Phase 4 | Platforms 14 to 16 | Final phase of reconstruction |
Each phase is expected to last a few months, beginning with Platform 1 to 5, which will take approximately four months to rebuild.
