New Delhi Railway Station is one of the busiest railway hubs in India, serving as a critical junction for people traveling to and from the capital city. It is a lifeline for many who come to Delhi for employment and tourism. However, significant changes are on the horizon as the station is set to undergo a major redevelopment, temporarily affecting its operations.
Redevelopment Announced
In the 2023 budget, the government announced a comprehensive redevelopment plan for New Delhi Railway Station. This plan aims to transform the station into a world-class facility. The project is expected to begin soon, significantly impacting the daily commute of the approximately 600,000 passengers who use the station daily, along with the 300 trains that operate from there.
Temporary Closure and Train Shifts
To facilitate this redevelopment, the station will need to halt operations for some time. All trains currently running from New Delhi Railway Station will be redirected to other stations. This shift will ensure the redevelopment work can proceed without interruptions and is expected to take around four years to complete.
Alternative Stations
Passengers will need to adjust to these changes, with trains being rerouted as follows:
- Trains to Eastern India: These will operate from Anand Vihar.
- Trains to Punjab and Haryana: Likely to be shifted to Sarai Rohilla.
- Trains to Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra: These will depart from Delhi Cantt and Nizamuddin.
- Additional Considerations: Some trains might also be rerouted from Ghaziabad.
Timeline for Completion
According to a senior official, the redevelopment work is slated to start by the end of 2024 and is expected to be completed by 2028-29. Once finished, the New Delhi Railway Station will emerge as a world-class railway facility, greatly enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers.