Expressing regret over the delay in the Visakhapatnam station redevelopment works, which were originally scheduled for completion within two years, Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat attributed the setback to tender-related issues and subsequent design changes.
The MP reviewed the redevelopment works at Visakhapatnam Junction along with railway officials on Wednesday. Speaking to media persons later, Mr. Sribharat said the first tender had to be cancelled and, when tenders were invited again, one of the bidders approached the court, resulting in a delay of about nine months. He said the overall delay had stretched to nearly one-and-a-half years due to changes in design on two occasions.
He explained that the Railway Minister had suggested major modifications in the structural design, including the addition of an aerobridge and 12-metre-wide foot overbridges. It was also decided to increase the number of platforms at Visakhapatnam Junction from eight to 14 to meet future requirements.
The existing station building on the west side at the Gnanapuram entry would be dismantled and replaced with a larger structure. The new facility would include parking space for 350 cars and 1,500 two-wheelers, besides a sewage treatment plant and a water treatment plant. After the completion of construction on the west side, the old station building on the main entry side in the east would be dismantled to make way for a new structure.
Mr. Sribharat said the project was initially planned as a G plus 2 building, which was later revised to G plus 3. Subsequently, the design was expanded to G plus 11 to cater to long-term passenger growth. However, at present, only G plus 3 floors would be constructed, with provisions to add the remaining floors at a later stage based on demand.
He said he had also suggested changes to the station facade based on feedback received through social media, and the final design would be approved shortly.
Replying to queries, the MP acknowledged demands for originating trains from Visakhapatnam to Tirupati, Bengaluru and other cities. At the same time, he said there were complaints about trains being held up on the outskirts of the city. He added that the construction of additional platforms and new lines would help ease congestion and allow more trains to be operated from Visakhapatnam.
He also said there were demands to extend trains originating or terminating at Visakhapatnam Junction to Odisha, but these were opposed as Visakhapatnam is a major rail hub serving a highly populated region.
Published – December 24, 2025 08:05 pm IST
