Cuttack Station Redevelopment Update: Main Building To Showcase Ancient Tradition Of Bali Jatra, 60 Per Cent Work Complete

Odisha’s Cuttack railway station is undergoing redevelopment, through which it will not only modernise the transportation hub but also enhance connectivity and passenger experience.

Calling it a "major transformation", the Ministry of Railways posted a video showcasing the proposed design. The video conveyed that pile casting, plinth beam and grade slab have been completed.

The roof slabs of the ground and the first floor have also been completed. It is being developed at an estimated cost of over Rs 300 crore as part of the Amrit Bharat Station programme.

The proposed station building in Cuttack will be iconic with modern amenities like a food court, retail arcade, paid lounges and waiting halls. The redevelopment started in April 2023 and will be completed by next year.

The main station building will showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage by including elements of the ancient tradition of the Bali Jatra. Bali Jatra is related to the maritime history of the city and is celebrated through a fair every year.

“A large boat, locally called Boita, is raised on the river bed of the Mahanadi and it signifies the tradition. The main station building will capture its (Bali Jatra) essence,” Chief Engineer (Construction) was quoted as saying by Financial Express.

The inner walls of the station like those in the waiting area will have local tribal paintings. The project envisages as a self-sustained energy efficient green building and 60 per cent of the work has been completed.