MUMBAI: The redevelopment of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) is set to put further pressure on long-distance train operations, with the Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) and Central Railway clashing over temporarily shutting platforms for the project.
Moreover, platform 17 continues to be occupied by RLDA staff and construction equipment.
CR officials admitted that the platform has been handed over but said that passenger amenities are yet to be made operational. The track improvement work RLDA officials are referring to is track and ballast cleaning, CR officials said.
On platforms 16 and 17, RLDA has built pillars for an elevated deck that will connect a proposed new building with the suburban platforms. The redevelopment of CSMT, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was approved by the Union cabinet in September 2022. It will cost ₹ 2,450 crore.
The redevelopment also envisages a commercial building-cum-hotel. “Only the ground floor of the new building has been constructed and work is pending on the P D’Mello side of the station. The project will transform the iconic, British-era railway terminus into a modern, integrated transport hub. Facilities include a roof plaza, food courts, retail and commercial spaces, and integration with other modes of transport. The heritage character of the main station building will be retained.
