Kerala: Ernakulam Junction Railway Station To Get World-Class Facelift, Project Gains Momentum

Ernakulam Junction Railway Station, which is part of Southern Railways, is set to be renovated with modern infrastructure to accommodate travellers' needs.

It is one of south India's busiest stations, commonly referred to as Ernakulam South Station. 

Initial works have begun and as part of the preliminary work, Southern Railways undertook a soil analysis, topographical survey, and facility relocation.

On 13 July 2022, the zonal railway awarded an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract to Kolkata-based M/s Bridge and Roof Company India Ltd at a cost of Rs 299.95 crore. 

The project's approved budget is Rs 444.63 crore.

An official statement of the railways states that all necessary clearances have been received from the Greater Cochin Development Authority, Kochi Metro Rail Limited, Kochi Corporation, and other civic bodies.

This project's redevelopment is expected to be finished within a 24-month period. 

Currently, it serves more than 1.96 crore passengers annually. The station will be renovated to handle the exponential increase in passenger volume in the future years.

The renovation work will be done on the western and eastern sides of the current station premises.

The facade will be designed to reflect the vernacular architectural character of Kerala.

On the eastern side, the railway authorities intend to construct a three-story Terminal Building (G+3 building). Railway offices, a hospital, and a ticket counter will all be housed in the East Terminal building, reports Financial Express.

Three stages of demolition will be undertaken on the building's western side. The newly-constructed building will meet G+4 world-class requirements. It will have lounges, escalators, lifts, and a ticketing area. 

Additionally, there is a plan to construct a multi-level parking structure (G+5 structure) with EV charging stations to house 90 two-wheelers and close to 108 vehicles.

The relocation of materials and facilities from the east terminal construction site has been completed. The test pile construction for the west terminal, skywalk, and different railway offices is also finished. 

According to the railways' statement, the staff quarters are being demolished while people have access to alternate housing.