Security arrangements at the redeveloped Gomti Nagar railway station appear to be lagging behind its “world-class” infrastructure, with baggage X-ray scanners and metal detectors lying unused at both entrances and limited visible security presence during an HT ground check.
“The entire system is not complete yet. Construction work is still underway on the north side and it will take some time to complete. Once the whole project is completed, these machines will be handed over to RPF. However, with the machines yet to become operational, baggage entering the station is currently not being screened through the equipment. Of these, eight are deployed for train escort duties. It was designed with vertically segregated arrival and departure terminals, with arriving passengers using the ground floor and departing passengers the first floor. the retail complex is still under construction While the main station building has been completed.
The sanctioned strength of the RPF at Gomti Nagar railway station is 40 personnel, according to railway officials. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the redeveloped Gomti Nagar railway station virtually on February 26, 2024. Built at an estimated cost of ₹ 400 crore, the NER station was planned as a modern transit hub with airport-like facilities, upgraded platforms, modern concourses and commercial spaces. The station has a daily footfall of around 10,000 passengers, according to officials.
A senior railway official said the security equipment had not yet been formally handed over to the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Arun Tripathi, senior divisional security officer, NER Lucknow, said the security system at the station was yet to be fully commissioned as construction work continued on the north side. For now, we are maintaining surveillance and keeping a watch,” he said. Senior railway officials said the X-ray scanners are designed to detect suspicious material, including objects concealed inside parcel and cargo boxes. Tripathi said around seven to eight personnel are available at the station during an eight-hour shift.
