DESIGN DISSERTATION

REJUVENATING RAILWAY STATION

SUBMITTED BY :

UMANG DARJI
ROLL.NO. : 2020002
FIFTH YEAR B.ARCH

UNIVERSAL COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE

Affiliated To Mumbai University
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to those who have supported me

throughout the development of this thesis.First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt
thanks to my principal, Ar. Vaishnavi Kalzunkar ma’am, for their invaluable
guidance, wisdom, and encouragement, which has been instrumental in shaping
this project.

I am immensely grateful to my friends, whose constant support provided the

motivation and inspiration during the challenging moments of this journey.I would
also like to acknowledge the unwavering love and support of my family—my
parents, whose belief in me and endless encouragement made this possible, and
my grandparents, whose blessings and wisdom continue to inspire me every day.

Their faith in me has been my greatest strength throughout this endeavor. This
academic journey has been transformative, and I am thankful to everyone who
has played a part in my growth as an architect. Your support and guidance have
been instrumental in my success, and I am grateful beyond words.

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CONTENT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
ABSTRACT
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Definition Of Railway Station
1.2 Need Of The Railway Station
1.3 Benefits Of Railway Station
1.4 Scale Of Railway Station
1.5 Types Of Railway Station
1.6 Place And Context
1.7 Future
2. SYNOPSIS
2.1 Aim
2.2 Objectives
2.3 Need For Study
2.4 Scope
2.5 Limitations
2.6 Architectural Intervention
3. LITERATURE REVIEW
3.1 Zonal Railway
3.2 Types Of Train Operated By Indian Railways
3.3 Subarban Rail Servies In India
3.4 Difference Between Train Central, Terminus And Junction ?
3.5 Types of Platform
3.6 How Railway Ticket System Evolved
3.7 How Station Names Evolved
3.8 Global Context
3.9 Indian Context
3.10 Introduction Of Industrial Railways In India
3.11 Introduction Of Pasenger Railways In India
3.12 Electrification And Expansion Of Indian Railways
3.13 STATION RELATED LITERATURE
3.13.1 Railway Station
3.13.2 Purpose Of Railway Station
3.13.3 Facilities Required At Railway Station
3.13.4 Station Layout And Design
3.13.5 External Circulation
3.13.6 Internal Circulation

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3.14 RAILWAY STAFF AT STATIONS: ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3.15 ECOLOGY OF COMMUTERS ON RAILWAY STATION
3.16 OVERCROWDING AT WESTERN RAILWAY STATIONS
3.17 CIDCO RAILWAY STATION PLANNING VS WESTERN RAILWAY STATION
PLANNING
3.18 ISSUES AT RAILWAY STATION
3.19 TYPOLOGY OF CONSTRUCTION : WESTERN RAILWAY STATIONS VS.
CIDCO-DESIGNED STATIONS
3.20 HOW GOOD PLANNING HELP COMMUTERS TO TRAVEL IN GOOD
CONDITION
3.21 INDIAN RAILWAY AGENCIES :
3.22 RAILWAY POLICE FORCE FUNCTIONS AT RAILWAY STATION :
3.23 RAILWAY STATION PURPOSES BEYOND JUST THE MOVEMENT OF
PASSENGERS :
3.24 HOW TOD TRANSFORM RAILWAY STATIONS INTO MODERN, SUSTAINABLE
& ECONOMICALLY VIBRANT HUBS :
3.25 HOW THE RAILWAY STAFF GETS INFORMED ABOUT TRAIN DELAYS :
3.26 RAILWAY STATION MAINTENANCE :
3.27 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF WESTERN RAILWAY BEFORE AND AFTER ITS
DEVELOPMENT :
3.28 PUBLIC TOILET :
3.29 EVOLUTION OF SUBURBAN TRAINS : FROM 3-CAR TO 12-CAR AND 15-CAR :
3.30 HOW THE PLACEMENT OF STAIRCASES, LIFTS, AND ESCALATORS AT
RAILWAY STATIONS IS DECIDED :
3.31 HOW ARCHITECTURAL SPACES AT RAILWAY STATIONS PLAY A CRITICAL
ROLE IN PROVIDING RELIEF TO COMMUTERS :
3.32 MUMBAI
3.22.1 ABOUT MUMBAI
3.32.2 HISTORY
3.32.3 INTRODUCTION
3.32.4 TRANSPORTATION IN MUMBAI
3.32.5 MUMBAI SUBARBAN RAILWAY INTRODUCTION
3.32.6 MUMBAI SUBARBAN RAILWAY NETWORK
3.32.7 SITUATION TODAY
3.32.8 THE PROBLEM
3.32.9 POOR STATION FACILITIES

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3.33 RAILWAY ARCHITECTURE :

3.33.1 RAILWAY STATION AND ITS PURPOSE :
3.33.2 MINIMUM ESSENTIAL AMENITIES AT EACH CATEGORY OF STATIONS.
3.33.3 SCALE OF MINIMUM ESSENTIAL AMENITIES AT STATIONS :
3.33.4 NORMS FOR PROVISION OF PASSENGERS AMENITIES AT THE RECOMMENDED
LEVEL
3.33.5 DESIRABLE AMENITIES :
3.33.6 FUNCTIONAL STANDARD OF FOUR MAIN AREAS IN RAILWAY STATION

4. DATA COLLECTION
5. CASE STUDY
5.1 Goregaon railway station, Mumbai
5.2 Seawoods Darave, Navi Mumbai
5.3 Bandra Railway Station, Mumbai
5.4 Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Germany
5.5 Comparative Analysis
6. DESIGN PROGRAM
7. SITE ANALYSIS

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ABSTRACT
The Concept of redesigning railway stations to improve their functionality and
increase their value within the urban fabric. It emphasizes the importance of
considering local context, whole-life and life-cycle costs, and the use of high-
quality, sustainable materials in the design process.

Good design practices and fostering a sense of place are also emphasized. The
paper also contextualizes the development of railway stations in the Indian
context, tracing its historical growth and commenting on the present scenario. It
concludes that high-quality, integrated station design can greatly improve user
experiences and contribute to an interconnected, active public realm, fostering
areas where people are encouraged to travel, shop, and work. This contributes to
the self-sustainability of the railway station.

A railway station is a space which caters to the majority of the population moving
within the city and also where multiple events take place, unfolding new stories all
the time. What role a station plays in its urban fabric depends on the extent at
which the activities penetrate in its surroundings, which offers dynamism to the
area and a sense of arrival in the station area.

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1. INTRODUCTION
A *railway station* is a crucial infrastructure where trains stop for the boarding and alighting of passengers or the
loading and unloading of goods. It serves as a node in the railway network, facilitating connectivity across
regions, cities, and countries. Railway stations are designed not only for efficient movement but also as hubs of
activity, merging transportation with social, economic, and cultural functions.

Rail transport, also known as train transportation or railway transportation, is a mode of moving goods and
passengers using trains running on a fixed set of tracks or rails. This system has been in use for centuries and
has played a crucial role in the development and growth of societies, especially during the Industrial Revolution.
Rail transport remains an essential part of the modern transportation infrastructure in many countries around the
world. The true evolution of rail transport began during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, particularly with the
advent of the Industrial Revolution.

The development of more efficient steam engines in the early 19th century played a pivotal role in the expansion
of railways. The first steam-powered locomotive, designed by George Stephenson, called the "Rocket," was built
in 1829 and marked a turning point in rail transportation. The concept of rail transport has evolved from
rudimentary track systems to a sophisticated and vital component of modern transportation. With its historical
significance and ongoing advancements, rail transport remains crucial in facilitating economic development,
trade, and connectivity worldwide.

1.1 DEFINITION OF A RAILWAY STATION –

A railway station is a facility along a railway line, featuring platforms, tracks, buildings, and services that cater to
passengers and freight. It acts as an intersection between various transportation modes, including local transit
systems like buses and metros, contributing to seamless mobility.

1.2 NEED FOR RAILWAY STATIONS –

Railway stations are integral to the transportation infrastructure. They serve the vital need for moving large
volumes of passengers and goods efficiently over long distances. In many countries, railway networks are the
backbone of public transportation, reducing road traffic congestion, pollution, and travel time. With urbanization
and population growth, railway stations play an essential role in ensuring accessible, affordable, and reliable
transit options.

1.3 BENEFITS OF RAILWAY STATION –

• Efficiency : Trains can carry large numbers of passengers and tons of freight with minimal delays, making
them one of the most efficient forms of transportation.
• Sustainability : Rail transport is environmentally friendly, with lower emissions compared to road and air
travel, contributing to reduced carbon footprints.
• Economic Growth : Well-designed railway stations spur economic activity by creating jobs, promoting tourism,
and enhancing connectivity between urban and rural areas.
• Accessibility : Stations improve mobility for people of all income levels, offering affordable transit options and
serving as transit-oriented developments.

1.4 SCALE OF RAILWAY STATIONS -

Railway stations vary in size and complexity based on their location and purpose :
• Local/Commuter Stations : Typically small, servicing daily commuters with frequent, short-distance travel.
• Regional Stations : Medium-sized stations handling intercity travel and serving as hubs for suburban
commuters.
• Major/Terminal Stations : Large-scale facilities that serve national and international routes. These are often
located in capital cities or major urban centers, featuring multiple platforms and extensive passenger
amenities.
• Freight Terminals : Specialized stations designed for handling and transporting goods, often located in
industrial or commercial zones.

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1.5 TYPES OF RAILWAY STATIONS –

• Junction Stations : Stations where multiple rail lines converge, allowing passengers to switch
trains.
• Terminal Stations : The final stop of a particular rail line, with trains either reversing direction or
ending their journey.
• Through Stations : Stations situated between the start and end points of a route, facilitating transit
without the need for trains to change direction.
• Underground/Subway Stations : Located below ground, serving urban mass transit systems.

1.6 PLACE AND CONTEXT –

• Railway stations are strategically located based on factors such as population density, economic
activity, and proximity to key destinations like city centers, airports, ports, and industrial hubs. For
instance, major metropolitan cities often feature central railway stations that connect local and
national networks, while rural areas may have smaller stations to link villages and towns.

• In India, iconic stations like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai and New Delhi
Railway Station serve as key transportation nodes that reflect the nation's historical and cultural
significance while catering to modern transit needs.

1.7 FUTURE OF RAILWAY STATIONS –

The future of railway stations lies in *modernization* and *sustainability*. As cities expand and smart urban
solutions become essential, railway stations are evolving to become multi-functional complexes. Future stations
will prioritize:
• Sustainable Design : Integrating renewable energy sources, green buildings, and smart energy management
systems.
• Smart Technology : The adoption of technologies like artificial intelligence, automated ticketing, real-time
information displays, and digital wayfinding will enhance the passenger experience.
• Multimodal Integration : Railway stations will increasingly serve as hubs for various transportation modes,
including buses, metros, taxis, and bike-sharing, creating seamless connections between different types of
transit.
• Passenger-Centric Amenities : Stations will evolve into spaces that offer shopping, dining, and entertainment
options, making them vibrant urban centers rather than just transit points.

As railway networks expand and evolve to meet the demands of growing populations and sustainability
challenges, the importance of railway stations in urban planning and transit-oriented development will only
increase.

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2. SYNOPSIS

2.1 AIM :

The aim of this thesis is to rejuvenate the railway station by creating a user-friendly, sustainable, and
functional design that enhances passenger experience, improves accessibility, and integrates the station
into the surrounding urban context.

2.2 OBJECTIVE :
The project's goal is to renovate or upgrade the current railway station into an integrated railway station that
offers high-quality facilities and services to both passengers and non-passengers. Transform the station
estate and its surrounds with the help of smart expansion and TOD concepts, ensuring easy accessibility
and integration with the surrounding area.

1. To create Superior road connectivity with the city for quick and easy access to the Project Railway
Station, adequate parking within the station premises, efficient multimodal interface, and flexibility for
integration facilities with future transport infrastructure.
2. Specialized facilities and services with an emphasis on women's and children's safety and convenience
for older or disabled travelers.
3. To Create a distinctive architectural entrance to the city and an iconic urban infrastructure are examples
of integrated development with the surrounding metropolis.
4. To get maximum amount of contemporary conveniences in a tidy and pleasant environment, along with
safe and comfortable passenger facilities and services.
5. To provide sufficient and well-coordinated commercial growth at the station and its surrounding area to
support the best possible financing model and achieve the aforementioned objectives through life-cycle
cost minimization for long-term viability.

2.3 NEED FOR STUDY :

The increasing urban population, coupled with the rise of smart cities, highlights the urgent need for
*functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable railway stations*.

Railway stations must accommodate growth while providing an enhanced passenger experience.
Addressing traffic congestion, pedestrian circulation, security, and urban integration is crucial. By upgrading
the architecture and infrastructure, railway stations can evolve from mere transit points into vibrant
community hubs.

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2.4 SCOPE :
• The thesis will explore the incorporation of *green building practices*, energy-efficient systems, and
sustainable materials in modern railway stations.
• Analysis of station layout and planning to improve passenger flow, navigation, and space utilization will
be conducted.
• The project will emphasize *inclusive design*, ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities, senior
citizens, and those with limited mobility.
• The design will strike a balance between preserving the *cultural heritage* of the station and embracing
modern architectural elements.

2.5 LIMITATIONS :
• The depth of the analysis will depend on available resources, data, and time.

• The study will focus primarily on architectural and design aspects, with limited analysis of the legal and
regulatory frameworks that govern the construction and operation of railway stations, as these can vary
significantly between regions.

2.6 ARCHITECTURAL INTERVENTION :

The thesis proposes *rejuvenating railway stations* to reflect modern architectural values while
maintaining their functional integrity. Key interventions include integrating smart technology, energy-
efficient designs, and sustainable practices.

The project will also explore the use of *multimodal transportation hubs*, connecting railway stations with
other modes of public transport to ensure seamless travel experiences. The aim is to transform railway
stations into spaces that provide more than just transit services, making them landmarks of urban
regeneration and sustainability.

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3. LITERATURE STUDY
3.1 ZONAL RAILWAY
SR RAILWAY CODE HEADQUARTER ESTABLISHE LENGTH STN DIVISIONS
NO ZONE D ( KM )
01 SOUTHERN SR CHENNAI 1951 5,093 727 Chennai, Madurai, Palakkad,
RAILWAY Salem, Thiruvananthapuram,
Tiruchirappalli
02 CENTRAL CR MUMBAI CSMT 1951 4,203 486 Bhusawal, Mumbai CR, Nagpur,
RAILWAY Pune, Solapur
03 WESTERN WR MUMBAI 1951 6,156 1046 Ahmedabad, Bhavnagar, Mumbai
RAILWAY CHURCHGATE WR, Rajkot, Ratlam, Vadodara
04 EASTERN ER KOLKATA 1952 2,823 587 Asansol, Howrah, Malda, Sealdah
RAILWAY
05 NORTHERN NR DELHI 1952 7,363 1013 Ambala, Delhi, Firozpur, Lucknow,
RAILWAY Moradabad
06 NORTH NER GORAKHPUR 1952 3,470 537 Izzatnagar, Lucknow, Varanasi
EASTERN
RAILWAY
07 SOUTH SER KOLKATA 1955 2,758 363 Adra, Chakradharpur, Kharagpur,
EASTER Ranchi
RAILWAY
08 NORTHEAST NFR GUWAHATI 1958 4,348 547 Alipurduar, Katihar, Lumding,
FRONTIER Rangiya, Tinsukia
RAILWAY
09 SOUTH SCR SECUNDERABAD 1966 6,560 156 Guntur, Guntakal, Hyderabad,
CENTRAL Nanded, Secunderabad,
RAILWAY Vijayawada
10 KOLKATA KM KOLKATA 1984 59.8 40
METRO
11 SOUTH EAST SECR BILASPUR 1988 2,396 358 Bilaspur, Nagpur, Raipur
CENTRAL
RAILWAY
12 EAST ECR HAJIPUR 1996 4,238 340 Danapur, Dhanbad, Mughalsarai,
CENTRAL Samastipur, Sonpur
RAILWAY
13 NORTH NWR JAIPUR 2002 5,705 578 Ajmer, Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur
WESTERN
RAILWAY
14 EAST COAST ECOR BHUBANESHWAR 2003 3,017 133 Khurda Road, Sambalpur, Waltair
RAILWAY
15 NORTH NCR PRAYAGRAJ 2003 3,522 411 Agra, Jhansi, Prayagraj
CENTRAL
RAILWAY
16 SOUTH SWR HUBBALLI 2003 3,661 381 Bengaluru, Hubballi, Mysuru
WESTERN
RAILWAY
17 WEST WCR JABALPUR 2003 3,060 247 Bhopal, Jabalpur, Kota
CENTRAL
RAILWAY

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3.2 TYPES OF TRAIN OPERATED BY INDIAN RAILWAYS -

1) RAJDHANI EXPRESS 2) SHATABDI EXPRESS 3) GATIMAAN EXPRESS

On its first journey, the Kolkata-New It provides only the seating facility for First semi-high speed train in India.
Delhi Rajdhani Express departed the passengers who can book their Its maximum speed is 160 KM/ Hr.
from Howrah on March 3, 1969. It is tickets only in AC chair cars. Indian This train runs between Delhi and
the most premium train of Indian Railways operates 25 pairs of Shatabdi Jhansi. The government’s main
Railways in which all coaches are Express trains that connect Metro cities objective in running this train is to
fully air-conditioned, i.e., first AC, with other important cities of India. promote Indian tourism.
second AC, and third AC
4) VANDE BHARAT EXPRESS 5) DURONTO EXPRESS 6) TEJAS EXPRESS

First indigenous rail, Vande Bharat Operate between India’s metro cities Tejas Express is a semi-high-speed
Express. Started on February 15, and big states’ capitals. The Duronto Indian Railways train with modern
2019. Running between New Delhi Express comes under non-stop trains facilities. Its maximum speed is 160
and Varanasi, covers the distance in of the Indian Railways and is known kmph. This train has automatic entry
around eight hours. This train runs all as the fastest and most punctual train and exit doors. These doors provide
week, except on Mondays and on the Grand Chord route between security, preventing people from
Thursdays. The country’s second metro cities. climbing and landing until the train is
Vande Bharat Express completes the on the platform.
distance between New Delhi to Katra
in 8 hours.

7) MAHARAJA EXPRESS 8) HUMSAFAR EXPRESS 9) SAMJHAUTA EXPRESS

Runs from Agra and takes Humsafar Express is a fully air- Runs between India and Pakistan &
passengers to Ajanta. It is a premium conditioned AC 3-tier train with 16 runs from Delhi to Attari .Passengers
tourist train of Indian Railways, and passenger coaches. In addition to are subjected to passing through a
many foreign tourists also prefer to the two coaches of the luggage-cum security check before boarding this
travel on this train.Royal kinds of generator car, there is also one of train. Samjhauta Express has six
facilities are provided to passengers the pantry cars. In this way, 21 Sleeper Coaches and one air-
in deluxe cabins. There are a total of coaches are available on the train. conditioned third class (3rd AC)
23 coaches on this train. In this train, coach. After leaving Delhi, there is no
88 passengers can travel stoppage of this train till Attari.
comfortably.

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10) MOUNTAIN RAILWAYS -

(I) Nilgiri Mountain Railway - (II) Darjeeling Himalayan Railway - (III) Kalka-Shimla Heritage Track -

Nilgiri mountain railway is a famous The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Rrunning on the Kalka-Shimla Heritage
world heritage site.Although it is the Train) runs between New Jalpaiguri and track is an easy way to reach Shimla.
slowest train in the country, it can Darjeeling. It was declared a World The route for this toy train was prepared
Heritage Site by UNESCO in December in 1903 itself. The train runs on a 96 km
only run at a speed of 16 km per
1999. The distance covered by this train is long track and covers 20 stations. It
hour. The journey of the Nilgiri about 78 kilometres. starts at Kalka near Chandigarh and
Mountain Train between goes to Shimla.
Mettupalayam to Ooty is fascinating.

11) BULLET TRAIN - 12) SUVIDHA EXPRESS - 13) UDAY EXPRESS -

The speed of a bullet train ranges Passengers who decide to travel at Double-decker train started running in
from 200 kilometres per hour to 600 the last minute so that the passengers June 2018 between Coimbatore and
kilometres per hour. India’s first bullet can get confirmed tickets even during Bengaluru. The second double-
train is being announced from days of heavy congestion. It is a decker Uday Express of Indian
Mumbai to Ahmedabad. Work is premium class train of Indian Railways runs between
under construction for the first bullet Railways. Only approved and RAC Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada in
train route in India. It is assumed to tickets are booked on this train. the East Coast Railway zone.
be completed by 2026.

14) ANTYODAYA EXPRESS - 15) MONORAIL - 16) YUVA EXPRESS

In 2016, former Railway Minister The monorail is a single rail track. Former railway minister Mamta
Suresh Prabhu announced plans to People also call it elevated railway Banerjee had announced plans to run
run Antyodaya Express. At present, system. Mumbai saw the first the Yuva Express between Dhanbad
30 Antyodaya Express are running in monorail in India. Additionally, and New Delhi for the unemployed
the country. There is no need to Maharashtra’s IT hub Pune received youths. On this train, sixty percent of
make any reservation for travelling in a proposal for the construction of seats stay reserved for the country’s
Antyodaya Express. The aim of the Monorail. youths. Currently, two Yuva Express
train is to uplift the weaker section of trains are running in India.
society.

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3.3 SUBARBAN RAIL SERVICE IN INDIAN RAILWAYS

Suburban rail is a rail service between a central business district and the suburbs, a conurbation or other locations
that draw large numbers of people on a daily basis. The trains are called suburban trains.

These trains are also referred to as "local trains" or "locals". The suburban rail systems in Hyderabad, Pune,
Barabanki-Lucknow, Lucknow-Kanpur and Bengaluru do not have dedicated suburban tracks but share tracks with
long distance trains.
1. MUMBAI SUBURBAN RAILWAY –

Mumbai Suburban Railway consists of exclusive inner

suburban railway lines augmented by commuter rail on main
lines serving outlying suburbs to serve the Mumbai
Metropolitan Region.

Spread over 465 kilometres (289 mi), the suburban railway

operates 2,342 train services and carries more than 7.5
million commuters daily. By annual ridership (2.64 billion)

Trains run from 04:00 until 01:00, and some trains also run
up to 02:30.

2. KOLKATA SUBURBAN RAILWAY –

Kolkata Suburban Railway is the largest suburban railway

network in India, serving the suburbs of Kolkata. Now
Kolkata Sub-Urban Railway has 348 stations and a track
length of 1,172 km.

The suburban railway operates 1450 EMU services and 159

MEMU services carrying 3.1 million (31.51 lakhs) people
daily. It runs from 4 a.m to 2 a.m in the night.

3. LUCKNOW - KANPUR SUBURBAN RAILWAY –

Lucknow - Kanpur Suburban Railway System is a commuter

rail service operated by Northern Railways, North Central
Railway and North Eastern Railway to connect
administrative capital Lucknow with the economic and
industrial capital Kanpur of the state Uttar Pradesh.

4. CHENNAI SUBURBAN RAILWAY –

Chennai Suburban Railway has 4 major suburban railway lines

to serve millions of people daily in the city of Chennai (Madras).

The total system spans around 900 km of which only 286 km

have dedicated dual tracks for suburban EMUs, the rest share
tracks with other trains and are called mainline EMUs
(MEMUs).

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5. DELHI SUBURBAN RAILWAY -

This railway service covers Delhi, along with the adjoining
districts of Faridabad, Ghaziabad and other adjoining places
in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

Delhi Suburban Railway uses the same tracks that are also
used for long distance trains. In 2009 Ladies Special trains
were introduced between New Delhi and Palwal and from
New Delhi to Ghaziabad and Panipat.

6. PUNE SUBURBAN RAILWAY -

Pune Suburban Railway, also known as Pune Suburban
Service or Pune Local Railway, is a suburban rail system
connecting Pune to its suburbs and neighboring villages in
Pune District, Maharashtra.

Pune's suburban railway operates on two routes, i.e. from

Pune Junction to Lonavla and from Pune Junction to
Talegaon. There are 5 trains which operate on Pune Junction
- Talegaon route while 18 trains operate on Pune Junction -
Lonavla route.

7. HYDERABAD MULTI - MODAL TRANSPORT SYSTEM -

Hyderabad Multi-Modal Transport System, is a suburban rail
system in Hyderabad, India. It is a joint partnership of
Government of Telangana and the South Central Railway,
and is operated by the latter.

The first phase of Multi Modal Transport System of

Hyderabad is completed and operational in particular routes.

8. BARABANKI - LUCKNOW SUBURBAN RAILWAY -

Barabanki - Lucknow Suburban Railway is a commuter rail
service operated by Northern Railways, North Central
Railway and North Eastern Railway to connect Lucknow with
Barabanki.

These services are mostly run using EMU and MEMU rakes.
However it does not have dedicated suburban tracks but
share the tracks with long distance trains.

9. PERNEM - KARWAR SUBURBAN RAILWAY -

The first DEMU Train service in Goa along the Konkan
Railway route, between Pernem and Karwar. Pernem and
Karwar DEMU train is suburban like services connecting
local stations of Konkan Railway in Goa, Margao and
Karwar.

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3.4 WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TRAIN CENTRAL, TERMINUS AND JUNCTION?
1. CENTRAL – Mumbai Central (BCT)

It is usually very large, has multiple stations and deals with a large number
of arrivals and departures.

It is also not necessary to have a central station in a city if there are various
stations. Like there is no central station in India's capital Delhi. These may
be the oldest stations, so they are named as central.

The five major Central stations of Mangalore Central (MAQ)

Chennai Central (MAS)
India are –

Mumbai Central (BCT)

Kanpur Central (CNB)
Chennai Central (MAS)
Mangalore Central (MAQ)
Trivandrum Central (TVC)
Kanpur Central (CNB) Trivandrum Central (TVC)

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

2. TERMINUS / TERMINAL –

The meaning of the terminal itself is the termination. This is the station
from where the train does not go further i.e. the train can only enter or
leave the station in only one direction.

It can also be understood as it is the termination of the track, where each

incoming track ends at stop-blocks and does not go any further.
Lokmanya Tilak Terminal
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus / Victoria Terminus and Lokmanya Tilak
Terminal. The other examples of railway stations are Bandra Terminus,
Howrah Terminus, Bhavnagar Terminal, Cochin Harbor Terminus etc.

Cochin Harbor Terminus Bandra Terminus

Howrah Terminus

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JUNCTION - Mathura Junction

If at least 3 routes are passing from one station, then the

station is called a junction. It means that the trains that
come into the station must have at least two outgoing
train lines.

The junction with the highest routes is Mathura i.e. 7.

Some other examples are: Six routes are emerging from
Salem Junction, five from Vijayawada and 5 from Bareilly
Junction etc.

Vijayawada Junction Salem Junction

Bareilly Junction

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3.5 TYPES OF PLATFORM

FLOW-THROUGH
BAY PLATFORM ISLAND PLATFORM SIDE PLATFORM
PLATFORM

1- BAY PLATFROM :

A bay platform is situated where the track terminates. It is usually found

at terminal stations where trains arrive from one end and do not
continue further.
Usage : These platforms allow for efficient train management at
terminal stations, as trains can be parked without obstructing other train
movements.

Eg. : Churchgate Station

Here we can see train coming from Borivali, virar and Dhanu this the
last stop for all train. After taking certain time of hault at the station.
Train again goes towards the direction of Borivali, virar and Dhanu.

Source : M indicator

2 – ISLAND PLATFROM :

An island platform is positioned between two tracks, with trains on

either side. Passengers can board trains from both directions by
using the same platform.
Usage: This design maximizes space and passenger flow,
allowing access to trains traveling in either direction ie.
Borivali/Virar directions.

Example:
Andheri Station: Some platforms at Andheri are island platforms
( 2 to 8 ) where passengers can access trains on both sides.
To acces these platform facilities such as escalators, staircase,
lifts, subway, ramps is there .
These platform allow facilities such as shops, kiosk,toilet water
dispenser, sitting.

Source : M indicator

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3 - SIDE PLATFORM :

A side platform is located alongside a single track,

where passengers can board or alight from trains on
one side only.
Example:
Vasai railway staion platform no. 1 act as a side
platform .
Borivali railway staion platform no. 1 and 2 act as a side
platform .

4 - FLOW-THROUGH PLATFORMS :

These platforms are built on tracks that allow trains to pass

through without stopping. They are usually for express or
fast trains, while the platforms are used primarily for local or
suburban services.
Usage: These are designed for express trains or fast
services that pass without stopping or for stations where
express trains have a limited stop.

Example :
Source : M indicator
Bandra station where platform 4 and 5 are use by fast trains
to stop.
Bhayandar, Malad, Kandivali, etc Station: The fast local
trains pass through on the center tracks without stopping,
while the suburban trains use the adjacent platforms.

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3.6 HOW RAILWAY TICKET SYSTEM EVOLVED

The ticketing system of Western Railway has undergone significant changes over the years, evolving from
traditional ticket counters to modern digital systems.

TRADITIONAL TICKET COUNTERS: THE INITIAL SYSTEM

In the early years, tickets were only available at physical ticket

counters located at railway stations. Passengers had to stand in long
lines to purchase a ticket before boarding a train. This method was
highly time-consuming and inefficient, especially during peak hours
when the number of commuters surged. Ticket clerks manually
handled the cash transactions, printed tickets, and handed them to
passengers.

CHALLENGES OF THE TRADITIONAL SYSTEM LONG QUEUES :

Due to the high number of commuters, especially in densely populated cities like Mumbai, passengers would
often spend a significant amount of time waiting in line. The limited number of ticket windows worsened the
situation.
TRAVELLING
OVER CROWDING SLOW PROCESSING HUMAN ERROR WITHOUT TICKETS
Stations like Churchgate, Dadar, Each transaction took
and Andheri would frequently Manual transactions Due to large queues
time, as ticket clerks
experience overcrowding at the often led to errors in and crowd people
had to process cash
ticket counters, with people issuing tickets, such as missing their train and
payments, issue
pushing and shoving to secure a incorrect fares or they get late so people
printed tickets, and
place in line. During festival wrong destinations. started traveling
count change.
seasons or emergencies, the without tickets.
situation was even more chaotic.

THE INTRODUCTION OF ATVMS: A STEP TOWARDS AUTOMATION

To alleviate these issues, Western Railway introduced Automated
Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs). These machines were a
significant milestone in the evolution of the ticketing process,
aiming to reduce congestion at ticket counters and offer
passengers a quicker, more efficient option to buy tickets.

ADVANTAGES OF ATVMS
LOWERED CASHLESS
REDUCED QUEUES CONVENIENCE
CROWDING TRANSACTIONS

The introduction of ATVMs were available By decentralizing The use of smart cards
ATVMs dramatically at various locations ticket sales, ATVMs facilitated faster,
reduced the burden on within the station, helped to decongest cashless transactions,
ticket counters. making it more the main counters, eliminating the need for
Passengers who were convenient for improving overall passengers to carry
tech-savvy or in a hurry passengers to purchase station circulation. exact change.
could use these tickets at their own pace
machines to avoid long
lines

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DIGITAL TICKETING WITH MOBILE APPS: THE CURRENT SYSTEM

With the rise of smartphones, Western Railway further modernized

its ticketing system by introducing mobile apps like UTS
(Unreserved Ticketing System). This marked a significant shift
towards digital ticketing, offering passengers the ability to buy
tickets anytime, anywhere, without needing to visit a ticket counter
or ATVM.

KEY FEATURES OF THE UTS MOBILE APPDIGITAL TICKETING:

Passengers can purchase unreserved tickets, platform tickets, and season passes directly from the UTS
mobile app.
QR Code Scanning, Online Payment Options, Journey Planning, Paperless System

ADVANTAGES OF ATVMS

REDUCED
24/7 AVAILABILITY NO WAITING ECO-FRIENDLY
OVERCROWDING

Passengers can buy The app completely With many The paperless ticketing
tickets at any time, eliminates the need for passengers opting system reduces the
whether they are at standing in lines or even for mobile ticketing, consumption of paper,
home, in the office, or interacting with the overall footfall at supporting the Indian
already en route to the machines. As a result, station ticket Railways’ sustainability
station. This is a major ticketing has become counters has goals.
convenience compared faster and more decreased
to the traditional system, accessible. significantly,
which required physical reducing congestion.
presence at the station.

CONCLUSION:
The evolution of Western Railway’s ticketing system from manual counters to ATVMs and mobile apps
has significantly transformed how passengers access rail services. Earlier times there was chaotic and
inefficient process involving long queues and overcrowded counters has now become easy and
convenient.
With the introduction of ATVMs, passengers were given an alternative to the traditional system, and
mobile apps like UTS have further simplified the process by offering digital ticketing solutions.

Challenges remain, especially for those without access to smartphones or the internet.

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3.7 HOW STATION NAMES EVOLVED

BORIVALI -
Borivali is named after a sweet fruit called “borr” which means “berries” in English. The
name “Borivali” refers to the town of berries, literally “bori-vali”.

KANDIVALI -
Kandivali formerly Khandolee is a suburb in the north of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India and
has a large Marathi, Koli, Gujarati population followed by others. British records highlight a
fact which is different from what is suggested in the rest of the article. The area names that
ends with "vali" were the actual valleys to the small hills surrounding the area, and that's
how we have Kandolee Valley to Kandivali.

GOREGAON –
Goregaon was originally called Ghodegaon, a name that was formed by combining the
word ghode (meaning "horse") and gaon (meaning "village").

This name was used because Goregaon was a major trading center for horses under the
rule of Chatrapati Shivaji. 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) from Goregaon is the village of
Ghodeghoom. In ancient times, warriors would train in Ghodeghoom and travel to
Goregaon to purchase horses.

JOGESHWARI –
The Jogeshwari Caves are some of the earliest Hinduism cave temple sculptures located
in the Mumbai suburb of Jogeshwari, India.
They were found during the excavation of Ajanta and Elephanta.
These caves belong to the Hindu deity Jogeshwari.

VILLE PARLE –
A village named Padale/Padle near Santacruz and Irle near Andheri and the station named
Vidlai Padlai led to the name Vile Parle. In this village, there was a huge colony of
Christians called Padale.

SANTACRUZ –
The term Santa Cruz comes from the Portuguese words meaning "Holy Cross", a
reference to a 150-year-old Cross located on Chapel lane within the compound of a home
for destitute women run by Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity trust.

When the railways began operations in October 1888, the local railway station was named
after the Holy Cross, and Santacruz as a locality came into being.

KHAR ROAD –
Khar, which is derived from the word Khāra (meaning 'salty' in the local language Marathi)
has acquired this name in reference to the salt pans that were used to farm salt by locals
near the Khar Danda sea shore a couple of centuries ago.

Here, one also finds the historic fishing village of "Khar Danda", which is one of the villages
that made up the original Bandra area and is also one of the oldest settlements of Mumbai.

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BANDRA –
The name "Bandra" possibly originates from the Persian word for port, or "bandar." It is
described by Duncan Forbes's A Dictionary, Hindustani and English (1848) as "a city; an
emporium; a port, harbor; a trading town to which numbers of foreign merchants resort“.
In Konkani, bandar is a loanword from Parsi (Persian) meaning harbour or port.

MATUNGA –
Matunga formed a part of the seven original islands of Mumbai with Mahim, then known as
Mahikavati.

It is said that the King of Mahikavati had his elephant stables in Matunga, and that the
name Matunga was derived from "Matanga", the Sanskrit word for Elephant.

DADAR –
Dadar is believed to have derived its name from the Marathi word “Dand,” which means
boundary. Originally, Dadar was considered the boundary between the island city of
Mumbai and the suburbs.
Over time, the pronunciation and spelling evolved to become “Dadar.”

PRABHADEVI –
But this part of central Mumbai, tucked between Parel and Worli, actually gets its name
from the Prabhavati Devi temple in the vicinity. While the temple itself turned 300 years old
recently, its main deity, whose name is now also the new name of Elphinstone Road
railway station on the Western Railway, reportedly dates back to the 12th Century.

CHARNI ROAD-
Between 1822 and 1838, cattle from the congested fort-area used to graze freely at the
Camp-Maidan (now called Azad Maidan) – an open ground opposite the Victoria Terminus
(VT – now called CST)

Sir Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy spent Rs. 20,000 from his own purse for purchasing some
grasslands near the sea-front at Thakurdwar and he saw to it that the starving cattle
grazed, without a fee, in that area.

In time, the area became to be known as “Charni” – meaning “grazing”.

When a railway-station on the BB&CI railway was constructed there – it was called “Charni
Road”.

CHURCHGATE –
During the eighteenth and up to the mid-19th century, Mumbai was a walled city
surrounded by a fortification. The city walls had three gates. One of the gates, Churchgate,
was named after St. Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai.

The area west of the original gate came to be known as Churchgate. In the mid-19th
century, the wall of the fort along with its gates were torn down to aid in the expansion of
the city. At the exact location of the Churchgate, Flora Fountain was built.

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3.8 GLOBAL CONTEXT

HISTORICAL EVOLUTION OF RAILWAY STATIONS

The origin of railway stations can be traced back to the early 19th century, during the Industrial Revolution. The
need for faster and more efficient means of transporting goods and people led to the rapid development of
railways, and with them, railway stations became central urban nodes.

1. Industrial Revolution and Urban Expansion:

• The early railway stations were primarily functional structures, designed to manage the logistical needs of
expanding industries. However, by the mid-19th century, the stations evolved into grand, monumental
buildings that symbolized civic pride and industrial might.
• Stations like King’s Cross (London) and Gare du Nord (Paris), built during this period, reflected the
architectural and technological innovations of their time. They were designed to accommodate large
passenger volumes, as well as to display the power and technological superiority of the nation-state.

2. The Role of Colonialism and Empire:

• Railway networks, particularly in colonies such as India, were crucial tools of governance and control. In the
British Empire, railways were used to extract raw materials and facilitate the movement of troops and
administrators.
• The construction of stations like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (Mumbai) or Howrah Station
(Kolkata) blended Victorian Gothic architecture with local influences, making them symbols of both imperial
dominance and indigenous identity.

ARCHITECTURAL AND URBAN DESIGN SIGNIFICANCE

1. Architectural Typologies:

• Early railway stations, such as St. Pancras Station (London), were heavily influenced by Victorian Gothic
styles, characterized by large arches, elaborate facades, and steel-and-glass roofs.
• As railway technology advanced, so did station design. Stations like Grand Central Terminal (New York)
introduced Beaux-Arts architecture, merging functionality with classical aesthetics. These stations also
became symbols of urban identity and civic pride.

2. Contemporary Design Trends:

• Modern stations reflect the need for integration into urban infrastructure. Stations like Berlin Hauptbahnhof
(Germany) and Kanazawa Station (Japan) are designed as multi-modal transport hubs, integrating bus
services, subway lines, and retail spaces.
• Sustainability and green architecture have also become prominent in station design. Rotterdam Centraal
Station and King’s Cross (London) have been revamped with energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials,
and expansive public plazas that reconnect the station with the urban fabric.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS AND CHALLENGES

1. High-Speed Rail and Station Design:

• The advent of high-speed rail in countries like Japan (Shinkansen) and France (TGV) necessitated the
redesign of stations to accommodate these faster trains. Stations such as Tokyo Station and Gare de Lyon
have multi-level platforms, streamlined operations, and are equipped with advanced ticketing systems and
passenger flow management technologies.

• Smart Stations are increasingly popular, incorporating AI-driven scheduling, digital ticketing, and smart
lighting systems that reduce energy consumption.

2. Sustainability Initiatives:
• As concerns over climate change increase, many global stations are adopting eco-friendly designs.
Rotterdam Centraal and Stockholm Central Station feature energy-efficient heating and cooling systems,
solar panels, and water recycling technologies, setting a global standard for green railway stations.

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SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC ROLE OF RAILWAY STATIONS

1. Economic Hubs:
•Many major stations, such as Gare du Nord (Paris) and New York Penn Station, are surrounded by commercial
enterprises, contributing to the local economy. Retail spaces, restaurants, and hotels cluster around these
stations, transforming them into economic zones.
•Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) models are applied in many cities to ensure that railway stations serve as
anchors for urban regeneration projects. Stations like King’s Cross (London) have become centers for real
estate development, with new residential and commercial spaces built around the station.

2. Cultural and Social Spaces:

•In addition to their economic functions, railway stations also serve as cultural spaces. Grand Central Terminal
regularly hosts exhibitions, markets, and public events, while St. Pancras Station features public art installations,
making these stations vital cultural landmarks.

EMERGING TRENDS AND THE FUTURE OF RAILWAY STATIONS

• Sustainable Design: The future of railway station design is heavily focused on sustainability. The Journal of
Transport & Sustainability (2020) reports that by 2030, over 40% of major European railway stations are
expected to be carbon-neutral, utilizing green roofs, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting systems. Oslo
Central Station is leading this movement by integrating 80% renewable energy into its daily operations.

• Digital Stations: Stations like Hong Kong West Kowloon and Beijing South are experimenting with fully
automated ticketing systems, AI-guided passenger flow, and contactless technology. These smart stations
are setting new benchmarks for efficiency and passenger convenience.

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3.9 INDIAN CONTEXT

HISTORICAL EVOLUTION OF RAILWAY STATIONS

India’s railway history began with the inauguration of its first passenger train in 1853. The
establishment of railway stations in India was deeply tied to colonial ambitions, but post-
independence, the focus shifted to connectivity, inclusivity, and modernization.

1. Colonial Era to Post-Independence:

• British colonial authorities built grand stations such as Victoria Terminus (now CST) and Howrah Station as
extensions of their imperial authority. These stations were designed not only to facilitate transport but also to
display British power through their imposing architecture.
• After independence, the Indian Railways rapidly expanded, becoming a unifying force that connected rural
and urban regions. Stations like New Delhi Railway Station reflected the growing needs of a newly
independent nation to integrate its vast geographical diversity.

2. Post-Independence Evolution:
• With the growth of urban centers and economic liberalization in the 1990s, railway stations in India
underwent significant changes. Stations like Habibganj and Gandhinagar represent modern trends in station
design, with a focus on passenger convenience, technology, and integrated urban development.

ARCHITECTURAL AND URBAN DESIGN SIGNIFICANCE

1. Colonial Architecture:
• Stations like CST (Mumbai) blend Victorian Gothic and indigenous architectural elements, with large arches,
turrets, and ornate facades. These stations reflect a hybrid style that embodies the cultural encounter
between Britain and India.
• Howrah Station (Kolkata), with its red-brick facade and classical design, is another example of British colonial
architectural influence, designed to impress and overwhelm with its scale and grandeur.

2. Contemporary Indian Stations:

• India’s modern railway stations, such as Habibganj and Gandhinagar, represent a shift towards user-centric
design. These stations prioritize passenger experience with improved facilities, digital signage, and
accessibility features.
• The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project is set to bring new architectural paradigms to Indian railway
stations, focusing on high-speed rail connectivity and modern station infrastructure that accommodates both
local and international passengers.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS AND CHALLENGES

1. Digital Integration:
• Indian Railways has implemented Real-Time Passenger Information Systems (RTIS) at many major stations,
improving the overall passenger experience. Platforms are equipped with electronic display boards,
automated ticketing systems, and enhanced security features like CCTV surveillance.
• Stations like Habibganj are designed with smart technologies, including digital signage, automated ticket
gates, and Wi-Fi facilities, making them comparable to international standards.

2. High-Speed Rail and Bullet Train Projects:

• The introduction of high-speed rail in India, starting with the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train, is expected to
bring a revolution in station design. High-speed rail stations like the planned Sabarmati Station will feature
multi-modal transport hubs, high-speed rail terminals, and modern architectural styles that emphasize
functionality and speed.

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SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC ROLE OF RAILWAY STATIONS

1. Railway Stations as Social Spaces:

• Indian stations like CST Mumbai and Bandra Railway Station are vibrant social ecosystems, where rural and
urban cultures intersect. These stations often double as marketplaces, with vendors selling food,
newspapers, and other goods, catering to travelers.
• Railway stations in India also serve as vital public spaces, particularly in rural areas where they might be one
of the few communal areas available for social interaction and economic exchange.

2. Economic Impact:
• Railway stations are economic lifelines for surrounding communities, especially in smaller towns and cities.
The presence of a major station can significantly boost local economies by providing employment, supporting
tourism, and fostering local commerce.
• Stations like Howrah and Chennai Central are surrounded by thriving markets and businesses that rely on
the constant flow of passengers.

EMERGING TRENDS AND THE FUTURE OF RAILWAY STATIONS

• Metro-Rail Integration: India is seeing a growing trend toward multi-modal transport hubs, where railway
stations integrate with metro lines and bus services. Bangalore City Junction is one such example, and future
redevelopments will likely follow this model. According to IRF (2020), the integration of metro services with
railways can reduce urban congestion by 15-20% in cities like Delhi and Bangalore.

• Decarbonization and Electrification: As Indian Railways works toward 100% electrification by 2030, railway
stations will increasingly rely on renewable energy. The Railway Energy Management Company Limited
(REMCL) is leading projects to install solar panels at 90 stations across the country, aiming to meet 40% of
energy needs through solar power by 2025.

Railway stations, in both global and Indian contexts, are

much more than transit points. They are reflections of
historical periods, cultural interactions, and economic
ambitions.
Their evolution from monumental symbols of industrial
power to modern multi-modal transit hubs showcases their
critical role in shaping urban landscapes and economies.

The future of railway stations will be defined by ongoing

technological advancements, the adoption of sustainable
practices, and their continued importance in fostering social
and economic connectivity.

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3.10 INTRODUCTION OF INDUSTRIAL RAILWAYS IN INDIA

YEAR KEY DEVELOPMENT

1851 The first experimental railway line was built near Chintadripet, Chennai, for transporting granite
stones. This marked the beginning of industrial railways in India.
1854 A 3.5-mile railway line constructed by Sir Arthur Cotton to transport construction materials for the
Godavari Dam.
1863 The Eastern Bengal Railway was constructed to transport tea, jute, and coal from the eastern
regions of India.
1870 Railways expanded in the mining regions of Bihar and Bengal to transport coal and minerals.

1900 Industrial railways became vital for transporting raw materials and finished goods for various
industries, including textiles, mining, and steel.
1947 Post-independence, industrial railways continued to support the growth of key industries in India.

3.11 INTRODUCTION OF PASSENGER RAILWAYS AND EXPANSION

YEAR KEY DEVELOPMENT

1853 The first passenger train in India ran between Bori Bunder in Mumbai and Thane, covering a
distance of 34 km.
1862 Introduction of the first railway bridge across the Ganges River at Allahabad, connecting northern
and southern parts of India.
1864 Railway lines extended to Kolkata (Calcutta), a significant step in connecting the eastern regions to
the rail network.

1870 Expansion of railway lines to major cities like Delhi. Chennai (Madras), and Mumbai (Bombay),
linking key urban centers.

1873 Completion of the Pamban Bridge, connecting Rameswaram to the mainland, facilitating rail travel
to South India.
1889 The railway time zone system was introduced to standardize time across the country. improving
scheduling accuracy.
1890 Introduction of the "famine specials," dedicated trains to transport food and aid during famines.

1896 Establishment of the Railway Board to oversee railway administration and development.

1900 Introduction of long-distance passenger trains connecting major cities, improving travel comfort and
connectivity.
1912 Opening of the Konkan Railway route, connecting Mumbai to Mangalore along the picturesque
Western Ghats
1924 Introduction of the Imperial Mail, a luxurious train with amenities for elites, showcasing the
diversity of railway services.

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3.12 ELECTRIFICATION AND EXPANSION OF INDIAN RAILWAYS

YEAR KEY DEVELOPMENT

1925 The first electric train in India ran between Victoria Terminus (Mumbai) and Kurla on the Great
Indian Peninsula Railway (GIPR).
1927 Electrification of the suburban section of the GIPR between Colaba and Borivli.

1930 Introduction of electric traction on the Howrah-Burdwan section of the Eastern Railway.

1931 The first electric train service commenced on the Howrah-Sheoraphuli section.

1935 Electrification of the Chennai Beach-Tambaram suburban section

1941 Introduction of electric trains on the Madras Beach-Gummidipundi section.

1942 Launch of electric train services on the Howrah-Kharagpur section.

1949 Electrification of the Howrah-Burdwan main line completed.

1950 Electrification of the Mumbai suburban section, covering both Western and Central Railways.

DURING THIS PERIOD, INDIAN RAILWAYS ALSO WITNESSED SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION:

NEW RAILWAY LINES

• Construction of new railway lines connecting previously unconnected regions.
• Expansion of the rail network to reach remote areas and facilitate economic development.

MAJOR STATIONS AND BRIDGES

• Construction of iconic railway stations like Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) in
Mumbai.
• Building of major bridges, such as the Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu, for rail connectivity.

ROLLING STOCK
• Procurement of new locomotives and wagons to cater to the increasing passenger and freight demands.
• Introduction of modern and more comfortable passenger coaches.

IMPROVED SIGNALING SYSTEMS

• Upgradation of signaling systems to enhance safety and regulate train movements.
• Introduction of block signaling and interlocking systems.

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3.13 STATION RELATED LITERATURE

3.13.1 RAILWAY STATION

A railway station is a space wherein passengers can board on or depart from a train. Railways stations have
emerged as central places in cities, especially in metropolitan cities, and also have become hubs of networks
owing their high accessibility by different means of transport.

They also offer opportunities for commercial development. The surrounding spaces of stations tend to be highly
chaotic, also causing entrance and exit to the stations difficult. Shortage of open spaces, and poorly planned
areas have caused degeneration. Therefore, creating additional spaces within railway station precincts would
prove to be significant urban projects.

3.13.2 PURPOSE OF A STATION

• To entrain or detrain the passengers

• To load or off load the goods or parcel
• To control the movement of train.
• To enable the train to cross each other in case of single line section.
• To enable the faster train to overtake the slower train.
• To attach of detach the coaches or wagon to and from the trains.
• To collect food and water for the passenger.
• To provide facilities for the change of engines and crew.
• To provide facilities for the stay of the passenger in case of emergencies like flood, accidents etc.

3.13.3 FACILITIES REQUIRED AT THE RAILWAY STATION

Railway stations are those gateways which provide access to people to find their way into any town or
community. It is acknowledged that the first impression of anything is a lasting one, and therefore, good design
for a station and its surroundings are vital and those should correspond with other civic amenities in the area. A
large passenger station should be enabled to provide for the necessary facilities for a minimum of 25 years in
the future.

FACILITIES REQUIRED ARE AS FOLLOWS

1) Passenger Requirement: Waiting room, retiring room, refreshment room, tea stalls, enquiry office and
reservation office, toilet, bathroom, drinking water, platform shed, approach roads.

2) Traffic Requirement: Goods shed, goods platform, station building, station master's office, signals, signal
cabin, reception, departure lines, siding break down train and station equipment.

3) Loco, carriage, wagon requirements: Loco shed, watering or fueling facilities, inspection pits.

4) Staff Requirement: Rest houses for officers and staff, running room for staff canteen, drivers and guards.

3.13.4 STATION LAYOUT AND DESIGN

The primary role of a station is to provide as a linking interchange spot, between various systems. So it is
mainly within this space that a traveler would experience a distinct transition, between the train and regions
which are outside the railway stations, seemingly two different worlds, either the following means of transport or
the buzz and activities of the cityscape.

A modern railway station, therefore, is nothing short of an urban gateway, reminiscent of an airport, and
similarly, the entrance and exit points play vital toles.

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A RAILWAY STATION MAINLY COMPRISES OF ELEMENTS LIKE -

• Railway tracks and signaling

• Platforms
• Circulation Areas
• Ticket Sales and Retail Spaces
• Post and Parcel Areas
• Station Forecourt

Each of the spaces must be clearly defined, for safety as well as ease of circulation in the premises along with
the connections within the elements which need to be clearly depicted by good design and signage. It is
important to avoid obstructions of any nature in platform areas, by implementing careful design that would help
for soother transitioning and pedestrian traffic.

THE CIRCULATION AREAS ARE MAINLY ZONED INTO-

1. Ticket and Information Related Areas

2. Waiting Areas (where passengers can be met with)
3. Dwell Areas (for intending passengers)
4. Café, Shops and Bookstalls
5. Telephone and Office Facilities

While designing a station, provision of clarity as well as safety are both prime considerations, for which
architecture can provide intensive solutions, such as for the allowance of natural light, or positioning of artificial
ones, the defining spatiality which will enhance a given area for its optimum usage as well as the structural
considerations which will pave the way for a built form which would support the functions, while being sensitive
to the user and the context.

Basic service elements such as staircases, escalators and lifts fulfil the vital role of allowing movement between
levels. It is important to establish hierarchies of movement, inside as well as outside and relating them to most
of the activities. Architectural solutions should be utilized in station design, with employment of basic principles
and elements to deflect changes in direction and unnecessary zones of circulation, inevitable with a station of
such magnitude.

3.13.5 EXTERNAL CIRCULATION :

While internal circulation holds importance, the functionality of a station is also graded by a smooth connection
inside and outside a station, an important aspect ensuing customer satisfaction. A traveler should be presented
with clear routes to lead to the pedestrian walkways, access roads, car parks, taxi stands, bus stops, etc. all
modes available ahead. Also, these nodes need be well covered, well-lit and safe for usage. External signage
as well as maps are, therefore, an important asset.

There needs to be a suspended canopy, over the entrances, in order to architecturally highlight as well as
enhance and facilitate the access points.

It is important that the layout of a station should ensure that the sign line in the major circulation is not
obstructed by any means. Also, the width of the road should depict relative importance within the structure, with
stipulated guidelines according that a pedestrian path be, for example, 1800 mm wide.

Segregation of movement in the station premises is a vital factor as well, especially when regarding arriving and
departing passengers, who must not be subjected to narrow entrances or exits. Moreover, being a public area
of a highly important stature, and a basic essential for most people's lives, a station always needs to be barrier
free, with all access points, and designs of staircases, with every detail including handrails and nosing, needing
to be barrier free design standards.

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Finer details, including external paving, planters, trees around the premises and the building, maintenance and
its resulting cost, appearance and durability need to be kept in mind throughout the design solution and its
analysis and execution, including those details, generally pondered about towards the end, such as lighting,
CCTV cameras, timetable boards, etc.

With due awareness of the requirements, it would not be conducive to treat the various elements required in
design and planning as completely separate identities. The design should be worked out and executed
holistically, and not with afterthoughts.

3.13.6 INTERNAL CIRCULATION

The four main zones of the station are defined as the access and entrance, the ticket and information, the
waiting areas and the platform and trains, and these need to be distinctly defined. The language of the design
and planning should reflect functional hierarchies, such as a wide station entrance, a higher area for ticketing
zones than other functions, wide platforms.
The spatiality defined by the experience of the circulation within these areas is a huge determinant of the
functionality of the station.

TICKET OFFICES
The offices should be readily located and easily accessible by all.
Automatic ticket vending machines, and in an amount that more than
suffices for projected footfalls are essential. Also, it remains a core
requirement that the security of the station be never compromised
and measures must be taken as a part of the design incentive.
Moreover, being the initial space stepped into in the station, it is here
that people develop their perceptions about the space and the
station.

COMMERCIAL AREAS
Depending on the footfall, the context of the station and its largesse,
a definite typology of the commercial areas to be provided can be
derived at.

These aid in providing service to customers and also contribute

towards revenue generation, but it must always be remembered that
the primary incentive is to ensure that the commercial areas do not
overpower the station, and neither should it jeopardize the efficiency
of the station.

It should support good civic sense, with enough provisions for people
to refrain from littering and defiling the precinct. The placement can
be determined only after an analysis of the required circulation.

PLATFORM SHELTER
Canopies are needed for platform areas. Despite there being
allowance for a continuous platform, curved in form, only a limited
portion is allowed shelter and the roofs cannot project beyond the
platform. Ensuring clearance as well as protection from existing high
voltage lines, in several railway stations is a necessary requirement.

Therefore, about 50% of the platforms are covered with canopies.

Another factor essential for platform design and management is the
choice of flooring, its state during wet conditions an important point of
consideration along with durability and effect of weathering.

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TOILETS
A challenge poses in the form of the design of toilets. Being an
essential backbone and a service necessity in a station design,
the toilets need to be designed to be an apt number according to
the footfall, need to be aesthetic and ensure measures to keep it
clean and airy at all instances with a good quality of fittings and
fixtures. It is very aptly said, at times, that regardless of the
pristine beauty of any premise, the status of the toilets that truly
determines its merit.

ACCESS FOR THE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED

Barrier free architecture has posed as a genuine concern over the

years, with people avoiding the importance of its requirements to
a large extent, thus limiting a vast number of the population from
living a regular life, as an independent individual.

Not only is it a humane or a legal concern, especially for public

spaces today, it also ensures a more plural and equal approach
towards design, enhancing spaces and accessibility for all.

Moreover, the measures which can be taken are least intensive,

such as provision of lifts, or addition of ramps as well as handrails,
clear signage along with special requirements, wider routes and
entrances, specific textures of pavements, increased lighting,
special telephone booths anf ticketing counters. specific screens
for sliding for access and circulation, etc.

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3.14 RAILWAY STAFF AT STATIONS: ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

RAILWAY STAFF

ADMINISTRATIVE AND
OPERATIONAL STAFF SAFETY AND SECURITY STAFF
CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

Station master Railway Protection Force (RPF) Ticket Counter Staff

Signalmen Ticket Inspectors (TTE) Enquiry Officers

Government Railway Police

Train drivers Reservation Clerks
(GRP)

Train controllers Platform Attendants Information Desk Personnel

Pointsmen

MAINTENANCE AND
TECHNICAL STAFF
SUPPORT STAFF

Maintenance Engineers Cleaning Staff

Train Examiners (TXR) Coolies

Electricians Catering Staff

Trackmen

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STATION MASTER SIGNALMEN TRAIN DRIVERS

The station master is in charge of Signalmen handle the signaling They ensure safe and timely
all the activities at the railway system at railway stations. They operation, adhering to speed
station. They are responsible for operate manual or electronic limits and signaling systems.
overseeing train operations, signals to guide the movement of Drivers are trained to handle
managing staff, coordinating the trains safely and prevent different locomotives, including
safe arrival and departure of accidents. They are also electric and diesel engines.
trains, and ensuring smooth responsible for switching tracks
functioning of the station. and ensuring that the signals are
working correctly.

TRAIN CONTROLLERS POINTSMEN

Train controllers are responsible Pointsmen assist in operating

for managing the train schedules switches (also known as
and ensuring that trains run on points) that determine the
time. They communicate with the route a train will take at a
station master, train drivers, and junction. They ensure that the
OPERATIONAL STAFF
signalmen to adjust the correct tracks are aligned for
schedules when needed and to trains to follow their
prevent delays. designated routes. In some
cases, they also assist in
signaling.

Maintenance Engineers Electricians

Maintenance engineers oversee the Electricians manage the

upkeep of the railway station’s electrical systems at
infrastructure, including platforms, railway stations, including
tracks, and signal systems. They lighting, signaling systems,
inspect and maintain various and overhead wires for
mechanical and electrical systems to electric trains. Their role is
ensure smooth functioning. crucial for the safe
operation of electric trains
TECHNICAL STAFF
and station facilities.

Train Examiners (TXR) Trackmen

Train examiners inspect trains before Trackmen are responsible

departure to ensure that they are in for inspecting and
proper working condition. They check maintaining the railway
the brake systems, wheels, and other tracks. They regularly check
mechanical aspects to certify that the tracks for defects, perform
train is safe for travel. minor repairs, and ensure
that the tracks are in good
condition to prevent
derailments.

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Railway Protection Force (RPF) Ticket Inspectors (TTE)

The RPF is responsible for Ticket inspectors (Travelling

ensuring the safety of Ticket Examiners, TTE) check
passengers and railway property. passengers’ tickets and ensure
They handle crowd control, that everyone traveling on the
monitor criminal activity, and train has valid fare. They also
respond to emergencies like theft handle ticket-related queries
or accidents. They are also and resolve disputes about
responsible for preventing SAFETY AND SECURITY STAFF seating.
vandalism and protecting railway
assets.

Government Railway Police (GRP) Platform Attendants

The GRP maintains law and Platform attendants help in

order at railway stations. They managing the flow of
deal with criminal activities, passengers on platforms,
conduct investigations, and ensuring safety during
provide assistance in case of boarding and deboarding.
accidents. While the RPF They are also responsible for
focuses more on the protection of making sure that the platforms
railway property, the GRP is are clean and safe for use.
responsible for the safety of
passengers.

Ticket Counter Staff Enquiry Officers

Ticket counter staff are Platform attendants help in

responsible for selling tickets to managing the flow of
passengers, handling inquiries, passengers on platforms,
and managing bookings for long- ensuring safety during
distance trains. They also assist boarding and deboarding.
passengers in booking platform They are also responsible for
tickets and resolving issues making sure that the platforms
related to fare discrepancies. are clean and safe for use.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND
CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

Reservation Clerks
Information Desk Personnel
Reservation clerks handle
advanced booking for long- Staff at the information desk
distance trains. They assist assist passengers with queries
passengers in reserving seats regarding train schedules,
and issuing tickets for future platform changes, and other
travel. travel-related information. They
provide vital support during
emergencies, helping
passengers navigate
disruptions and delays.

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MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT

STAFF

Cleaning Staff Coolies Catering Staff

Cleaning staff are responsible for Coolies assist passengers with Catering staff manage the food
maintaining hygiene at the carrying luggage and moving and beverage services at
station. This includes cleaning goods around the station. railway stations. They provide
platforms, restrooms, waiting Though they are not technically meals and snacks to
areas, and ensuring that the employed by the railways, they passengers, both on platforms
tracks and station surroundings play an essential support role. and inside trains.
are free of litter and debris.

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3.15 ECOLOGY OF COMMUTERS ON RAILWAY STATION

ECOLOGY OF COMMUTERS

Mental Stress and Emotional and

Physical Stress Cognitive Load
Tension Psychological Impact

Overcrowding Time Pressure Commuter Aggression Decision Fatigue

Fatigue Noise Pollution Sense of Isolation Sensory Overload

Weather Exposure Personal Space Heightened Anxiety

Invasion
Accessibility Issues Emotional Burnout
Unpredictability

Overcrowding: Mumbai’s railway stations, especially during Time Pressure: Commuters often face time pressure,
peak hours are notorious for extreme overcrowding. hurrying to catch trains and reach their destinations on
Commuters face physical stress from being crammed in tight time. Delays, train cancellations, or overcrowded
spaces, struggling to get on and off trains, and navigating platforms amplify feelings of anxiety.
large crowds.
Noise Pollution: High levels of noise from train
Fatigue: Long commutes, standing for extended periods, and announcements, crowd chatter, honking, and general
difficulty moving through stations increase physical hustle and bustle lead to sensory overload, increasing
exhaustion. The lack of seating areas in many stations mental fatigue and stress.
exacerbates this fatigue.
Personal Space Invasion: The constant lack of personal
Weather Exposure: Stations with poor ventilation or space in crowded trains and platforms can cause stress,
insufficient shelters expose commuters to extreme heat, anxiety, and even discomfort, especially for women and
humidity, or rain, adding to physical discomfort. vulnerable groups who may fear harassment.

Accessibility Issues: Commuters with disabilities or the elderly Unpredictability: Sudden disruptions, such as train
experience greater physical strain due to insufficient ramps, delays, changes in schedule, or technical issues, create a
elevators, or accessible design elements in older stations. feeling of helplessness and tension, leading to mental
stress.

Commuter Aggression: Overcrowding, heat, and frustration Decision Fatigue: Commuters are constantly making
often lead to aggression among commuters. This can small decisions—when to get on a train, where to stand,
manifest as verbal altercations, pushing and shoving, or a which exit to take. These micro-decisions, combined
general sense of hostility. with high stress, contribute to cognitive overload and
decision fatigue, which can affect other areas of life.
Sense of Isolation: Despite being surrounded by hundreds or
thousands of people, commuters can experience a sense of Sensory Overload: The multitude of stimuli in a busy
isolation. The lack of social interaction, especially during long, station—noises, smells, constant movement—causes
monotonous commutes, can lead to feelings of loneliness and sensory overload, reducing a person’s ability to focus
disconnection. and process information effectively.

Heightened Anxiety: The fear of being left behind, missing a

train, or personal safety concerns (such as theft or
harassment) leads to heightened levels of anxiety.

Emotional Burnout: The routine of enduring stressful daily

commutes can contribute to emotional exhaustion. Over
time, this burnout can negatively affect work productivity and
overall mental well-being.

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TYPES OF PASSENGER AT RAILWAY STATION

Daily Office Commuters

(9-to-5 workers)

Students PEAK TRAVEL TIMES

Vendors and Hawkers

Casual Travelers PEAK PERIOD :

Morning Peak : 08:00 AM to 10:30 AM
Business Travelers (towards Churchgate)

Long-distance Passengers

Senior Citizens
PEAK PERIOD :
Tourists Evening Peak : 05:00 PM to 08:00 PM
(towards Virar)
Local Residents on Short
Trips

Frequent Flyers and

Metro Commuters

DAILY OFFICE COMMUTERS (9-TO-5 WORKERS)-

TYPICAL ROUTINE :
• Morning Commute : Office-goers usually leave their homes between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM. Most of them live in
suburban areas such as Borivali, Malad, Andheri, Vasai, Virar and commute toward South Mumbai areas like
Churchgate, Marine Lines, Dadar, Bandra where major business districts are located.

• Office Hours : Most work between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM, although flexible hours have been increasingly adopted.
After reaching their office, their typical day includes working at their desks, attending meetings, and other
professional activities.

• Evening Commute : Around 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the return journey begins, and commuters head back home,
facing another round of crowded trains. Many office-goers prefer getting to the station early to avoid the rush,
while some are forced to travel later to avoid extreme overcrowding during peak hours.

STUDENTS -

TYPICAL ROUTINE:
•Morning Routine: Students typically travel between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM, depending on the start times of their
classes. Those attending institutions in areas like Andheri, Bandra, Dadar, and Churchgate travel from suburban areas
such as Kandivali, Borivali, or even far-off locations like Palghar, Vasai, Virar.

•Afternoon/Early Evening Return: Students usually return home in the afternoon, between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM,
depending on their class schedules and extracurricular activities. Evening college students may travel as late as 9:00
PM.

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VENDORS AND HAWKERS –

TYPICAL ROUTINE:
• Early Morning Commute : Many vendors start their commute as early as 5:00 AM to reach major markets
like Dadar or Bandra. They often travel with large baskets or bags of goods, such as food or clothes, which
they plan to sell throughout the day.

• Working Hours : Vendors and hawkers operate either within or around the railway stations throughout the
day. Some work in markets near railway stations, while others sell goods directly on trains, moving from
compartment to compartment.

• Evening Return : Vendors typically return home between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM after completing their day's
sales.

CASUAL TRAVELERS –

TYPICAL ROUTINE:
•Unscheduled Trips: Casual travelers usually travel during off-peak hours to avoid the crowd. They may
travel for leisure, medical appointments, shopping trips, or social visits. These trips tend to be planned
around specific events or needs, rather than daily routines.

•Flexible Travel: These passengers enjoy greater flexibility in their travel time and do not face the same
pressure as daily commuters to catch specific trains.

SENIOR CITIZENS –

TYPICAL ROUTINE:
Midday or Afternoon Travel: Senior citizens generally prefer traveling during off-peak hours, such as between 10:00
AM and 3:00 PM. This helps them avoid the rush and ensures a more comfortable journey.

Leisurely Pace: These passengers often travel with more time at hand, planning their trips in advance to ensure that
they are not in a hurry.

TOURISTS -

TYPICAL ROUTINE :
• Flexible Travel: Tourists generally travel outside peak hours to avoid the rush. They may use local trains to access
popular tourist destinations like Marine Drive, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, or Gateway of India.

• Tourists unfamiliar with the local train network often face confusion with ticketing and train schedules.

• Safety and security issues arise when tourists are not aware of local norms regarding overcrowded
platforms and compartment allocations.

LOCAL RESIDENTS ON SHORT TRIPS -

TYPICAL ROUTINE:
• Short-distance Travel: These passengers usually travel for short distances, such as from Andheri to Borivali or
Bandra to Churchgate. They often travel outside peak hours to avoid congestion.
• Purpose-driven Travel: Trips are usually related to specific needs like shopping, attending an appointment, or
visiting friends and family.

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3.16 OVERCROWDING AT WESTERN RAILWAY STATIONS

OVERCROWDING IN WESTERN RAILWAY STATIONS :

Stretching from Churchgate in South Mumbai to Dahanu in the north, it is one of the most heavily used
suburban rail systems. Each day, millions of passengers depend on the Western Railway to travel for work,
education, and other purposes. However, with a rapidly growing population and increasing urbanization,
overcrowding has become a major issue, affecting both passengers' safety and comfort.

Western Railway is known for its key role in linking the northern suburbs to the central business districts,
making it an indispensable part of Mumbai's transit system. Despite the critical role it plays, the
infrastructure of Western Railway has not expanded proportionally to match the rising number of daily
commuters, leading to congestion.

EXAMPLES OF OVERCROWDED WESTERN RAILWAY STATIONS :

Churchgate : Being a terminus, Churchgate handles a vast number of commuters arriving from the
northern suburbs. It serves as the entry point to South Mumbai’s commercial hubs.

Dadar : Dadar serves as a crucial interchange between the Western and Central Railway lines. Its strategic
location makes it a critical junction for passengers switching between lines.

Andheri : A key station on the Western line, Andheri is also the busiest railway station in Mumbai, as it
connects with the Mumbai Metro and serves multiple commercial and residential zones.

Bandra : Bandra is another interchange, connecting with the Harbor line. It also serves as a major
commercial hub with the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) in proximity.

Borivali : Borivali acts as a gateway to the northern suburbs and towns. It’s a vital station for people living
in distant suburbs like Vasai and Virar.Each of these stations sees a footfall ranging from hundreds of
thousands to nearly a million passengers daily, making them hotspots for overcrowding.

REASONS FOR OVERCROWDING :

Population Growth : Mumbai’s population continues to grow rapidly, and many people from all over India
migrate to the city for employment opportunities. This leads to an ever-increasing number of daily
commuters.

Suburban Spread : The residential areas in the northern suburbs (such as Borivali, Kandivali, and Vasai)
have expanded significantly over the past few decades. As a result, the number of people commuting from
these distant suburbs to commercial districts has skyrocketed.

Inadequate Infrastructure : Despite being one of the busiest rail networks, many Western Railway
stations still operate with outdated infrastructure. Limited platforms, narrow foot overbridges (FOBs),
inadequate ticketing systems, and restricted entrances/exits contribute to overcrowding.

Employment Hubs in South Mumbai : A large percentage of jobs are concentrated in South Mumbai,
particularly in areas around Churchgate, Nariman Point, Lower Parel, and Dadar. This leads to a significant
flow of commuters from the northern suburbs to these business districts.

Limited Frequency of Trains : Although Western Railway runs several trains during peak hours, the
frequency often fails to match the rising demand.

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FOOTFALL OF PASSENGERS : ( source times of india )

Churchgate : Approximately 500,000 passengers per day.

Andheri : Around 1300,000 passengers daily.
• On platform 6-7, a total footfall of 2.6 lakh was observed between 8 am and 11 am, and 1.1 lakh between 5 pm and
8 pm. Platform 8-9, which caters to locals that terminate at Andheri and then operate as Virar-bound trains, sees
major congestion. On platform 7-8, a footfall of 26,000 was seen during morning rush hours, and 72,000 during
evening rush hours.

Dadar : Close to 500,000 passengers per day.

Bandra : Around 400,000 to 500,000 passengers daily.
Borivali : Approximately 500,000 passengers per day.
Virar : Around 400,000 passengers daily.

LOCATIONS OF OVERCROWDING WITHIN STATIONS :

Platforms: Platforms are often filled beyond capacity, especially during peak hours when multiple trains arrive within
a short span. People waiting for trains crowd the platforms, sometimes leading to unsafe conditions, with commuters
standing dangerously close to the edge.
Foot Over Bridges (FOBs): Many stations are notorious for their congested footbridges. Dadar, for example, has been
the site of multiple stampede incidents due to overcrowded FOBs.

Staircases and Escalators: Narrow staircases, inadequate escalators, and insufficient exit routes contribute to
congestion, further make worse the crowding problem.
Ticket Counters and Entry Points: Entry and exit points, as well as ticketing areas, often face severe overcrowding.
Long queues at ticket counters and Automated Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) are common, adding to the
discomfort of daily commuters.

ACCIDENTS DUE TO OVERCROWDING :

Stampedes: One of the most tragic incidents of overcrowding occurred in 2017 at the Elphinstone Road station (now
Prabhadevi), where a stampede on a foot overbridge led to 23 fatalities. The overcrowded bridge was unable to
handle the sudden influx of passengers during rush hour.

Falling from Trains: Overcrowded trains lead to passengers hanging from doors or boarding while the train is in
motion, resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Several people fall off trains daily due to the inability to secure a safe
place inside the compartment.
Injuries on Platforms: Overcrowded platforms result in passengers falling into the gaps between the platform and the
train. Accidents also occur when passengers rush to board or exit crowded trains.

ISSUES FACED BY PASSENGERS DUE TO OVERCROWDING :

Delays and Missed Trains: During peak hours, passengers often miss trains due to overcrowded platforms
and difficulty in boarding already-packed trains.Health Hazards: Overcrowded trains, especially during
summers, create uncomfortable conditions with extreme heat and lack of ventilation. Many passengers
suffer from fatigue, dehydration, and fainting.

Theft and Safety Concerns: Overcrowded stations and trains become hotspots for pickpocketing and petty
theft. Women passengers, in particular, face safety concerns in such conditions.

Unhygienic Conditions: Overcrowded platforms and trains lead to poor sanitary conditions, with litter,
spitting, and unhygienic restrooms being common complaints.
Discomfort: Standing in cramped conditions, being jostled while boarding, and facing overcrowded
footbridges and platforms make daily commuting extremely uncomfortable.

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3.17 CIDCO RAILWAY STATION PLANNING VS WESTERN RAILWAY STATION PLANNING

The difference in planning between CIDCO-designed stations and Western Railway-managed stations is significant
because each has its distinct objectives, design philosophies, and operational priorities. CIDCO's planning often
emphasizes the integration of commercial and real estate development with transport hubs.

Whereas Western Railway's designs primarily focus on the core functionality of handling passenger traffic in high-
density urban environments.

ORGANIZATIONAL GOALS AND DEVELOPMENT PHILOSOPHY :

CIDCO (Seawoods–Darave , vashi, CBD Belapur Railway WESTERN RAILWAY STATIONS

Stations). (E.G ANDHERI, BORIVALI)
• It is not just a transit point but a hub of commercial, • Western Railway’s primary focus is on efficiently
retail, and residential activity. moving large volumes of passengers in an extremely
• Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): CIDCO congested urban environment.
focuses on maximizing the utility of land around • The design of its stations is largely influenced by this
transport hubs. need for functionality and operational efficiency.
• The Seawoods Grand Central mall, built above Western Railway stations emphasize:
Seawoods-Darave station, is an example of TOD
where retail, entertainment, and office spaces are
combined with the railway infrastructure to create
a mixed-use development.
• Vashi station has a similar design with a commercial
complex, making the station more than just a
commuter hub.

• Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model: CIDCO • Western Railway stations prioritize handling
tends to involve private players in the development extremely high footfall during peak hours.
process. • Stations like Andheri, Dadar, and Borivali are
• In the case of Seawoods-Darave, the station designed with multiple platforms, footbridges, and
redevelopment was done under a PPP model with elevated walkways to handle the constant flow of
L&T Realty. passengers.
• This allows for the infusion of capital and the • The focus is on minimizing congestion, improving
creation of state-of-the-art facilities that benefit not boarding and alighting times, and ensuring the
just commuters but also the surrounding safety of passengers.
community.

• CIDCO’s stations often emphasize both aesthetic • Western Railway operates in some of the most
appeal and functionality. densely populated areas of Mumbai.
• The architecture of Seawoods-Darave, with its glass • Therefore, its stations are designed to be resilient
façade and modern interiors, is designed to provide and durable, capable of handling the wear and tear
a pleasant experience for commuters. of millions of passengers every day.
• The architecture tends to be more utilitarian, with
less focus on aesthetic design compared to CIDCO's
stations.

• Integrated Real Estate: Vashi railway station is

notable for having a commercial complex right
above the station, integrating real estate
development with transportation.
• This concept of combining real estate with railway
infrastructure is part of CIDCO’s larger vision to use
the stations as anchors for urban development,
promoting economic activity while serving the
transport needs of the public.

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SPATIAL PLANNING AND INTEGRATION WITH SURROUNDINGS :

• Mixed-Use Development: Seawoods-Darave and • Many Western Railway stations are situated in
Vashi stations are part of mixed-use developments areas where land is scarce and expensive.
that include office spaces, malls, and residential • This limits the ability to expand platforms or create
complexes. open spaces.
• This integration ensures that the station is a key • As a result, the focus is on optimizing the available
part of the local economy, contributing to both space for maximum passenger throughput.
transportation and commerce.

• CIDCO emphasizes seamless integration with other • Western Railway stations are primarily designed to
modes of transport. serve transportation needs.
• The Seawoods-Darave station is connected to bus • While some stations like Mumbai Central and
stops, auto-rickshaw stands, and parking lots, Churchgate have adjacent commercial
ensuring that passengers have easy access to last- developments, the scale of integration is less than
mile connectivity. that seen in CIDCO’s stations.

• CIDCO’s stations tend to have well-designed • Western Railway stations often have congested
pedestrian pathways, ensuring safe and easy surroundings, with auto-rickshaws, buses, and taxis
movement for commuters. competing for space.
• In the case of Seawoods-Darave, the station has • While efforts have been made to improve
wide walkways, escalators, and elevators to multimodal integration (e.g., the development of
facilitate smooth passenger movement. skywalks at Bandra and Andheri), the planning is
often constrained by the existing urban fabric.

ARCHITECTURAL AND STRUCTURAL DESIGN :

• Seawoods-Darave is designed with a modern • The design of most Western Railway stations is
aesthetic, featuring a sleek glass façade, open focused on functionality, with large platforms,
interiors, and an airy, well-lit environment. simple waiting areas, and basic amenities.
• While some stations like Mumbai Central have
• The station is visually striking and designed to historical significance and architectural value, the
create a positive experience for passengers. overall design is more practical than visually
appealing.

• The structural design of CIDCO’s stations often • Western Railway stations are designed to handle
includes large spans and open spaces. high passenger volumes and the harsh urban
• This allows for a more flexible interior layout and environment.
provides ample room for commercial activities. • The materials used, such as concrete and steel, are
• The use of steel and glass in Seawoods-Darave chosen for their durability, requiring minimal
creates a light and modern appearance while maintenance despite the heavy use.
ensuring structural strength.

• The design of CIDCO stations includes commercial • While some Western Railway stations have
spaces within the station building itself. commercial developments nearby, they are
• At Vashi, the station is integrated with a commercial generally not integrated into the station itself to the
complex, providing retail and office spaces that extent seen in CIDCO’s stations.
cater to commuters and locals alike. • This reflects Western Railway’s focus on
transportation rather than real estate development.

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PASSENGER AMENITIES AND SERVICES :

• Retail and Dining Options: Both Seawoods-Darave • Most Western Railway stations provide basic
and Vashi have extensive retail spaces, offering amenities such as restrooms, seating, and food
passengers a wide range of dining and shopping stalls.
options. • However, the range and quality of these amenities
• This makes the station a destination in itself, rather can vary significantly from station to station.
than just a transit point.

• The stations are equipped with modern amenities, • Western Railway stations are primarily designed to
including clean restrooms, digital displays, facilitate the movement of passengers.
escalators, elevators, and ample seating areas. • While some stations have been upgraded with
• The focus is on providing a comfortable and escalators, elevators, and digital displays, the
convenient experience for commuters. overall focus remains on functionality rather than
enhancing the passenger experience with additional
services.

CONCLUSION :

• The key difference in the planning of railway • The design that prioritizes function and efficiency,
stations by CIDCO stations are designed with a with less emphasis on aesthetic appeal or
broader vision of urban development, incorporating integration with commercial spaces.
commercial, residential, and retail spaces within the • Western Railway continues to prioritize operational
station complex. efficiency and practicality.
• They prioritize aesthetics, passenger experience,
and seamless integration with the surrounding
urban environment.
• CIDCO’s stations reflect a more modern approach to
station design

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3.18 ISSUES AT RAILWAY STATION

ISSUES

Maintenance and
Overcrowding Lack of Accessibility Safety Concerns
Cleanliness

Ticketing and Queuing Issues Environmental Issues

Integration with Other

Inadequate Amenities
Transport Modes

OVERCROWDING :

Peak-Hour Congestion : Most urban railway stations, especially those on the Western and Central lines in
Mumbai, experience extreme overcrowding during peak hours. The infrastructure at many stations was not
designed to handle the present-day passenger volumes, leading to severe congestion on platforms, ticket
counters, stairways, and foot over bridges.

Platform and Train Overcrowding : Limited platform space, combined with frequent train arrivals and
departures, makes it difficult for passengers to board and get off safely. The overcrowded environment
leads to pushing, shoving, and sometimes accidents, especially during rush hours.

LACK OF ACCESSIBILITY :

Limited Facilities for Disabled Commuters : Despite regulations requiring accessibility, many stations
lack proper infrastructure for people with disabilities, including ramps, elevators, or accessible toilets. Foot
overbridges often lack lifts or escalators, making it difficult for the elderly or those with mobility issues to
navigate the stations.

Narrow Footbridges and Staircases : Many footbridges and staircases are too narrow for the volume of
foot traffic, creating bottlenecks during peak hours. This leads to dangerous overcrowding, especially when
people are in a hurry to catch trains.

SAFETY CONCERNS :

Platform Gaps and Fall Hazards : The gap between the platform and the train is often wide at older
stations, leading to numerous accidents where commuters fall between the train and platform while
boarding or deboarding.

Crowd Control Issues : During peak hours, poor crowd control leads to a lack of orderly movement, with
passengers often pushing and rushing to board trains. This chaotic environment increases the risk of
stampedes and accidents.

Security Issues : Railway stations are often vulnerable to petty crime such as pickpocketing, and in some
cases, more serious security threats. Insufficient security personnel, inadequate CCTV surveillance, and
poor lighting in certain areas make commuters feel unsafe.

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MAINTENANCE AND CLEANLINESS :

Poor Sanitation : Many stations suffer from poor sanitation, especially in restrooms and around food stalls.
Overflowing trash bins, litter, and unclean facilities create a poor environment for commuters.

Dilapidated Infrastructure : Many older railway stations have dilapidated infrastructure, including cracked
platforms, poorly maintained tracks, rusting overhead bridges, and broken seating areas. This not only
causes discomfort but also poses safety risks.

Waterlogging During Monsoon : Inadequate drainage systems at many stations lead to severe
waterlogging during the monsoon season. Water accumulation on tracks and platforms not only disrupts
train schedules but also creates hazardous walking conditions for commuters.

TICKETING AND QUEUING ISSUES :

Inefficient Ticketing Systems : Long queues at ticket counters and insufficient ticketing machines cause
delays and frustration among commuters. While smart cards and mobile ticketing have been introduced, the
systems are often unreliable or not widely adopted.

Crowding at Entry/Exit Points : Limited access points at many stations, especially smaller ones, result in
bottlenecks, with long queues for ticket verification and crowding at exits. This also makes it difficult for
passengers to quickly disperse after getting off the trains.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES :

Noise Pollution : Railway stations, especially in urban areas, generate significant noise pollution from train
horns, announcements, and the general hustle and bustle of the crowd. Prolonged exposure to high noise
levels has negative effects on commuters' mental and physical health.

Air Pollution : Diesel-powered trains, nearby vehicular traffic, and overcrowding contribute to poor air
quality at many railway stations. Commuters are often exposed to elevated levels of air pollutants, which
can lead to respiratory issues.

Lack of Green Spaces : Most railway stations, especially older ones, lack green spaces or vegetation that
could help mitigate environmental impact, provide shade, or create a more calming atmosphere for
commuters.

INADEQUATE AMENITIES :

Lack of Seating Areas : Many stations offer insufficient seating, particularly during peak hours. Elderly,
pregnant women, and disabled passengers often have difficulty finding places to sit while waiting for trains.

Insufficient Toilets and Water Fountains : Restroom facilities are often inadequate or poorly maintained.
Additionally, the number of drinking water fountains is limited, which causes inconvenience to commuters,
especially during hot weather.

9. ntegration with Other Transport ModesPoor Connectivity with Other Public Transport: Many stations lack
seamless integration with other public transport modes, such as buses or metro systems. Poorly designed
interchanges result in passengers having to walk long distances or cross dangerous roads to switch
between different forms of transportation.Parking Issues: Insufficient parking facilities at railway stations
result in chaos as people park vehicles haphazardly. This issue is compounded by informal parking lots,
often leading to congestion and inefficiency in station precincts.

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INTEGRATION WITH OTHER TRANSPORT MODES :

Poor Connectivity with Other Public Transport : Many stations lack seamless integration with other
public transport modes, such as buses or metro systems. Poorly designed interchanges result in
passengers having to walk long distances or cross dangerous roads to switch between different forms of
transportation.

Parking Issues : Insufficient parking facilities at railway stations result in chaos as people park vehicles
haphazardly. This issue is compounded by informal parking lots, often leading to congestion and
inefficiency in station precincts.

TECHNOLOGICAL LAG :

Lack of Digital Integration : Many stations, especially older ones, have limited digital infrastructure.
There’s a lack of real-time information displays, reliable Wi-Fi, and effective communication systems to
inform commuters of train delays, cancellations, or emergencies.

Outdated Infrastructure : Many stations still rely on manual systems for train management, crowd control,
and ticketing, which slows down operations. Modern technological upgrades, such as digital signages and
automated ticketing, are either lacking or inefficiently implemented.

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3.19 TYPOLOGY OF CONSTRUCTION : WESTERN RAILWAY STATIONS VS. CIDCO-

DESIGNED STATIONS
Both systems serve as critical lifelines for commuters, yet they reflect distinct approaches in terms of construction
typology, operational capacity, and urban integration.

British Colonial Influence on Western Railway Station CIDCO’s Vision for Navi Mumbai
• CIDCO, established in 1970, was tasked with
• Ones like Churchgate and Bandra, were developed decongesting Mumbai by developing Navi Mumbai
during the British colonial period. The architectural as a planned satellite city.
style of these stations often reflected Victorian and • The railway stations designed under CIDCO’s
Gothic Revival influences, using materials such as jurisdiction, such as Seawoods-Darave, Vashi, and
stone, wrought iron, and brickwork. Belapur, are integral components of this new urban
• Example: The iconic Churchgate station, which planning initiative.
opened in 1870, exemplifies colonial architecture,
characterized by intricate façades and spacious
interiors.

Post-Independence Development Master-Planned Development

• CIDCO adopted a transit-oriented development
• The stations developed during this period (e.g., (TOD) model, where railway stations were designed
Andheri, Borivali) reflect more utilitarian designs, to serve as hubs for mixed-use urban centers.
prioritizing function over form. • This approach contrasts with the piecemeal
• Shift in Materials: The transition from heavy stone development of Western Railway stations, which
construction to lighter, modern materials such as evolved organically over time.
steel, concrete, and glass.
• Challenges: Limited space for expansion and
retrofitting stations within the congested urban
core.

Western Railway Stations in the 21st Century Station Construction and Design Features in Navi
Mumbai
• Recent renovations, especially following the • Stations designed by CIDCO were built with modern
introduction of the Mumbai Urban Transport construction techniques, incorporating large public
Project (MUTP), have focused on upgrading older plazas, retail spaces, and parking lots.
stations and improving passenger amenities, while • They were created to accommodate rapid urban
also incorporating modern design principles like growth with a strong focus on passenger comfort
modular platforms and skywalks. and multi-modal connectivity.
• Example: Seawoods-Darave Railway Station is often
cited as India’s first “railway mall” due to its
extensive commercial integration with the railway
station.
• Materials Used: CIDCO’s stations employ a mix of
glass, steel, and precast concrete, with a focus on
low-maintenance materials that can withstand the
coastal climate.

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1. PLANNING PHILOSOPHIES :

Organic growth vs. Planned development :

One of the key distinctions between Western Railway stations and CIDCO stations is how they evolved. Western
Railway stations have generally followed a path of organic growth, expanding as urban demands necessitated,
whereas CIDCO stations were part of a master-planned urban expansion.

• Western Railway: Stations like Dadar and Andheri are the product of decades of incremental additions, with
haphazard infrastructure expansions leading to challenges in accommodating the ever-growing population.

• CIDCO’s Navi Mumbai: In contrast, CIDCO’s stations were designed with future expansion in mind. For example,
Vashi Railway Station was designed as a part of a larger commercial hub, with ample space for future growth.

TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT (TOD) :

CIDCO’s design of railway stations was heavily influenced by the concept of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD),
where mixed-use developments surround the station, allowing for commercial, residential, and retail spaces to co-
exist. Western Railway stations, particularly those in South Mumbai, were built before such concepts gained
popularity, resulting in a lack of surrounding amenities.

2. INFRASTRUCTURE AND CONSTRUCTION TYPOLOGIES :

Platform Design and Capacity

Western Railway stations have historically struggled with overcrowded platforms due to limited expansion
possibilities within Mumbai’s dense urban environment. Many of these stations were built to accommodate fewer
passengers and had to undergo multiple retrofits to manage the increased footfall.

• Construction Materials : Older stations like Churchgate used stone and brick, while newer stations use a
combination of steel and concrete.

CIDCO’S ADAPTABILITY IN DESIGN

CIDCO-designed stations, being a part of the Navi Mumbai project, benefitted from having ample land for
development. As a result, their platform design is more spacious, and they are better equipped to handle large
volumes of passengers with ease.

• Construction Techniques : CIDCO adopted modern construction techniques like precast concrete and structural
steel, which allowed for faster construction and easier maintenance.

3. ARCHITECTURAL STYLE AND AESTHETIC DIFFERENCES :

Western Railway’s Colonial and Modern Styles

The architectural style of Western Railway stations is often a blend of colonial heritage and modern functionalism.
Historic stations like Churchgate and Bandra have distinct colonial features, while newer stations prioritize function
over form.

• Example : The Gothic Revival architecture of Bandra station contrasts with the modern, utilitarian design of stations
like Goregaon and Malad, which focus on maximizing space.

CIDCO’s Contemporary Architectural Vision

CIDCO stations exhibit modernist and contemporary architectural styles, focusing on clean lines, open spaces, and
the use of glass and steel to create an airy, light-filled environment.

• Example : Seawoods-Darave’s sleek glass façade and commercial integration reflect a shift toward designing
stations as part of a larger urban experience, rather than merely transport hubs.

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4. URBAN INTEGRATION AND CONNECTIVITY :

Integration with Surrounding Neighborhoods: Western Railway

Western Railway stations are often surrounded by dense, congested urban neighborhoods, with little room for
expansion or integration into the wider urban fabric. For example, Bandra and Dadar stations are surrounded by
residential and commercial buildings that limit expansion options.

CIDCO’s Stations: Part of a Planned City

CIDCO stations, on the other hand, are well-integrated into their surroundings. Navi Mumbai’s master plan ensured
that stations like Vashi and Belapur serve as focal points for surrounding residential and commercial developments.

•Pedestrian Connectivity: CIDCO stations typically include wide footpaths, skywalks, and pedestrian bridges to
ensure easy access for commuters.

CIDCO stations show the advantages of

planned urban development, whereas
Western Railway stations show the
traditions of organic expansion and
adaptation to the demands of an expanding
population.

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3.20 HOW GOOD PLANNING HELP COMMUTERS TO TRAVEL IN GOOD CONDITION

Good planning significantly enhances the travel experience by addressing the psychological needs of commuters. How
well thought out railway station design contributes to a positive state of mind for travelers.

Reduced Stress
Comfort and Convenience and
Through Clear
Personal Space Access to Amenities
Navigation

Efficiency and Time WELL DESIGN Sense of Security

Management RAILWAY STATION and Safety

Social Comfort and Predictability and Aesthetic and

Community Reduced Calming
Connection Uncertainty Environment

SENSE OF SECURITY AND SAFETY :

A well-planned station with clear surveillance, visible security, and designated emergency areas provides commuters
with a sense of safety. This reduces anxiety, especially in crowded environments, where people often feel vulnerable.

DESIGN FEATURE LIKE :

Well-lit areas, security cameras, and visible help desks offer reassurance. Clear signage helps travelers navigate
confidently, reducing feelings of disorientation or fear.

REDUCED STRESS THROUGH CLEAR NAVIGATION :

Navigational clarity directly reduces stress. When travelers know exactly where to go and how long it will take, they
experience lower anxiety, especially when they are pressed for time.

DESIGN FEATURE LIKE :

Easy-to-read signage, intuitive pathways, and information booths at key junctures help travelers move efficiently
without confusion. Maps and digital boards offering real-time information further decrease the fear of missing trains.

COMFORT AND PERSONAL SPACE :

A comfortable and spacious environment alleviates feelings of crowding and irritation, making the journey more
enjoyable. Crowded, poorly designed spaces increase stress and frustration.

DESIGN FEATURE LIKE :

Sufficient seating areas and waiting rooms reduce the need to stand in long queues or overcrowded platforms.
Ventilation, temperature control, and clean restrooms also cater to physical comfort, which directly influences a
commuter's mood.

AESTHETIC AND CALMING ENVIRONMENT :

A well-designed station with pleasant aesthetics, greenery, and open spaces fosters a sense of calm. This is especially
important in busy transit hubs where travelers may already be mentally taxed by their journey.

DESIGN FEATURE LIKE :

Incorporating green spaces, landscaped areas, and public art reduces stress, offering visual relief and promoting a
sense of tranquility. Spacious public plazas allow for peaceful movement, while natural lighting promotes a more
relaxed mental state.

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EFFICIENCY AND TIME MANAGEMENT :

Knowing that the station is well-organized and trains are running efficiently provides commuters with peace of mind.
Uncertainty about schedules or delays can trigger frustration and anxiety.

DESIGN FEATURE LIKE :

Real-time train status displays, efficient baggage handling, and direct access to platforms ensure that commuters can
manage their time effectively.Features like dedicated express lanes for frequent travelers or those in a rush help
improve the perception of speed and efficiency.

SOCIAL COMFORT AND COMMUNITY CONNECTION :

Stations designed with social comfort in mind, such as waiting lounges with enough personal space, reduce social
discomfort. Opportunities for social interaction, or spaces to retreat for privacy, accommodate different psychological
needs.

DESIGN FEATURE LIKE :

Seating arrangements, communal spaces, and designated quiet zones allow commuters to engage socially or find
solitude, depending on their preference.Accessible areas for elderly or disabled passengers offer inclusivity, boosting a
sense of community.

CONVENIENCE AND ACCESS TO AMENITIES :

Access to amenities like food courts, restrooms, and convenience stores gives commuters the ability to satisfy basic
needs, contributing to a more relaxed and pleasant journey.

DESIGN FEATURE LIKE :

Well-placed kiosks and restrooms within close proximity to platforms reduce frustration associated with long waits or
uncomfortable conditions. Access to Wi-Fi, power outlets, and mobile charging stations helps commuters stay
connected, adding to their sense of comfort.

PREDICTABILITY AND REDUCED UNCERTAINTY :

A well-organized station helps reduce the unpredictability of travel, which is a major source of stress for commuters.
Predictability in routes, platform assignments, and train schedules improves psychological well-being.

DESIGN FEATURE LIKE :

Clear scheduling, easy access to information, and good platform organization ensure that passengers can plan and
execute their travel with minimal anxiety.

A good planning of railway station contributes to a psychologically positive travel experience by fostering a sense of
security, reducing stress, improving comfort, promoting autonomy, and creating an aesthetically pleasing environment
to the passengers. This makes the entire commuting process smoother, more predictable, and more enjoyable,
encouraging a healthier mindset during travel.

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3.21 INDIAN RAILWAY AGENCIES :

Indian Railways, one of the largest rail networks in the world, operates under a complex hierarchy involving multiple
agencies that manage various aspects of the railway system. These agencies are responsible for operations,
infrastructure, passenger services, freight, and the overall development of the railways.

AGENCIES

Ministry of Railways Divisional Railway

Railway Board Zonal Railways
(MoR) Managers (DRMs)

Research Designs Dedicated Freight Indian Railway Stations

Railway Recruitment
and Standards Corridor Corporation Development
Boards (RRBs)
Organisation (RDSO) of India (DFCCIL) Corporation (IRSDC)

Railway Public National High-Speed

Konkan Railway Railway Safety
Sector Undertakings Rail Corporation
Corporation Agencies
(PSUs) Limited (NHSRCL)

IRCTC (Indian CONCOR (Container

Railway Catering RailTel Corporation Corporation of
and Tourism India)
Corporation)

IRFC (Indian Railway RITES (Rail India

RVNL (Rail Vikas
Finance Technical and
Nigam Limited)
Corporation) Economic Service)

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MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (MOR) :

The Ministry of Railways is the apex body responsible for the management and oversight of Indian Railways. It
formulates policies, allocates budgets, and oversees all operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :
Policy formulation and regulatory framework.Budgeting and financial management.Planning and development of new
railway lines and services.

MINISTER OF RAILWAYS :
The Ministry is headed by a Union Cabinet Minister, who is responsible for strategic decisions and representing the
railway sector in the central government.

RAILWAY BOARD :
The Railway Board functions as the executive arm of the Ministry of Railways and is responsible for the administration,
operation, and management of Indian Railways.
COMPOSITION :
Chairman & CEO: Heads the Railway Board and is responsible for the overall functioning of Indian Railways.

Members: The board includes members responsible for different functions like operations, engineering, traffic,
infrastructure, and finance.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :
Coordination of operational functions such as train scheduling and movement. Monitoring and improving safety
standards. Implementing policies from the Ministry of Railways at an operational level.

ZONAL RAILWAYS :
Indian Railways is divided into 19 zones, each responsible for specific regions of the railway network.

KEY ZONES:
• Northern Railway (New Delhi)
• Western Railway (Mumbai)
• Central Railway (Mumbai)
• Eastern Railway (Kolkata)
• Southern Railway (Chennai)

General Manager: Each zone is headed by a General Manager, who oversees the day-to-day operations, maintenance,
and safety within the zone.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Overseeing passenger and freight operations. Maintenance and management of railway infrastructure (tracks, signals,
stations). Localized policy implementation and operational coordination.

DIVISIONAL RAILWAY MANAGERS (DRMS) :

Each zone is further divided into divisions, with around 73 divisions in total. Each division is managed by a Divisional
Railway Manager (DRM).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :
Overseeing train operations within their divisions.
Ensuring safety and efficiency in railway services.
Managing staff and resources within the division.
Implementing policies from zonal and national levels.

RAILWAY RECRUITMENT BOARDS (RRBS) :

Railway Recruitment Boards are responsible for recruiting non-gazetted staff (Group C and D) for various positions
within Indian Railways.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Conducting exams and interviews for various technical and non-technical positions.Managing the recruitment process
for different railway zones and divisions.

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DEDICATED FREIGHT CORRIDOR CORPORATION OF INDIA (DFCCIL) :

DFCCIL is a special-purpose vehicle (SPV) tasked with constructing and managing the Dedicated Freight Corridors
(DFC), which are high-speed corridors meant to handle freight traffic, reducing congestion on passenger lines.

KEY PROJECTS:
Eastern Corridor : Connecting Ludhiana in Punjab to Dankuni in West Bengal.
Western Corridor : Connecting Dadri in Uttar Pradesh to Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Mumbai.

INDIAN RAILWAY STATIONS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (IRSDC) :

The IRSDC is responsible for modernizing and redeveloping railway stations across India into world-class hubs,
incorporating commercial and passenger facilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Planning and executing station redevelopment projects.
Integrating stations with urban infrastructure and amenities.

RESEARCH DESIGNS AND STANDARDS ORGANISATION (RDSO) :

The RDSO is the research and development wing of Indian Railways, responsible for developing new technologies,
designs, and standards for rolling stock, tracks, signals, and other railway infrastructure.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :
Formulating technical standards for railways.
Testing new materials and technologies.
Improving safety, reliability, and efficiency of railway systems.

KONKAN RAILWAY CORPORATION :

Konkan Railway Corporation manages the Konkan Railway line that runs along the western coast of India from
Maharashtra to Karnataka.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :
Operations and maintenance of the Konkan Railway line.
Development of new routes and services along the western coast.

SIGNIFICANCE: The Konkan Railway is known for its scenic route, and its engineering feats in traversing difficult terrain,
including bridges and tunnels.

NATIONAL HIGH-SPEED RAIL CORPORATION LIMITED (NHSRCL) :

NHSRCL is tasked with implementing high-speed rail projects (bullet trains) in India, the most notable being the
Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed corridor.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :
Construction, operation, and maintenance of high-speed rail networks.Collaborating with international partners for
technology transfer and expertise.

RAILWAY SAFETY AGENCIES :

Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS):
The CRS functions under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and is responsible for ensuring the safety of railway operations
across India.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :
Inspecting railway infrastructure for safety standards.Approving new railway lines, rolling stock, and signaling systems
before they are commissioned.

Railway Protection Force (RPF) :

The RPF is responsible for the security of railway property and passengers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :
Preventing theft, vandalism, and damage to railway property.Ensuring passenger safety on trains and at stations.

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RAILWAY PUBLIC SECTOR UNDERTAKINGS (PSUS) :

Indian Railways operates several PSUs that handle specialized functions related to operations, manufacturing,
research, and development. Some of the key PSUs include :

• IRCTC (INDIAN RAILWAY CATERING AND TOURISM CORPORATION) :

Manages online ticketing, catering, and tourism services for Indian Railways. It operates the official ticketing website
and app and handles catering services for trains and stations.

• RAILTEL CORPORATION :

Manages telecommunications and internet infrastructure for Indian Railways, including providing Wi-Fi services at
stations and fiber-optic networks for operational needs.

• CONCOR (CONTAINER CORPORATION OF INDIA) :

Focuses on containerized freight transport and operates inland container depots (ICDs) for efficient goods movement.

• IRFC (INDIAN RAILWAY FINANCE CORPORATION) :

Handles financial activities and raises capital for the expansion and modernization of Indian Railways through bonds
and other financial instruments.

• RITES (RAIL INDIA TECHNICAL AND ECONOMIC SERVICE) :

Provides consultancy services in rail transport, infrastructure, and project management for Indian Railways and other
national and international clients.

• RVNL (RAIL VIKAS NIGAM LIMITED) :

Oversees construction and development of new railway lines, doubling, electrification, and other infrastructural
projects for Indian Railways.

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3.22 RAILWAY POLICE FORCE FUNCTIONS AT RAILWAY STATION :

The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Government Railway Police (GRP) are two key agencies responsible for
maintaining law and order, ensuring safety, and protecting railway property at railway stations and on trains. While
their roles are distinct, they work together to ensure the smooth functioning and safety of railway operations.

POLICE FORCE

Railway Protection Force (RPF) Government Railway Police (GRP)

Responsibilities of the RPF Responsibilities of the GRP

Protection of Railway Filing FIRs and

Passenger Security Law and Order
Property Investigations

Checking Anti-Smuggling Handling Criminal

Crowd Management
Unauthorized Entry Operations Offenders

Evacuation During Dealing with Train Coordination with Women and Child
Emergencies Robberies Local Police Protection

Ensuring Safety During

Rescue Operations
Special Events

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3.23 RAILWAY STATION PURPOSES BEYOND JUST THE MOVEMENT OF PASSENGERS :

Railway stations, while primarily designed for facilitating travel, serve multiple purposes beyond just the movement of
passengers. Over the years, they have evolved into multifunctional hubs that offer a range of activities and services for
passengers, businesses, and the community.

Real Estate and Property Public and Governmental

Commercial Activities
Development Services

• Retail Outlets • Business Complexes

• Tourist Information
• Food Courts and • Hotels and
Centers
Restaurants Accommodation
• Government Offices
• Kiosks and • Transit-Oriented
• Railway Museums
Convenience Development (TOD
Stores
• ATM and Financial
Services

Logistics and Freight Entertainment and Social and Welfare Community and Public
Handling Leisure Services Spaces

• Cargo Handling • Live Music or • Shelters and Aid • Public Events

• Parcel and Courier Performances for the Homeless • Street Vendors
Services • Multiplexes • Child Welfare • Public
Centers Announcements
• Health Services

COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES :
• Retail Outlets:
Railway stations often house shops that sell essential items such as food, beverages, books, magazines, clothing, and
electronics. These retail outlets cater not only to travelers but also to local visitors.
• Food Courts and Restaurants:
Modern stations include food courts, cafes, and restaurants offering a variety of dining options, from fast food to
regional delicacies. Some stations even host popular restaurant chains and franchises.
• Kiosks and Convenience Stores:
Small kiosks offering snacks, bottled water, SIM cards, mobile accessories, and travel essentials are a common sight at
railway stations.
• ATM and Financial Services:
Many railway stations provide ATMs, currency exchange services, and mobile banking kiosks to assist passengers with
their financial needs.

REAL ESTATE AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:

In recent years, several major railway stations in India have become centers of real estate and property development.
• Transit-Oriented Development (TOD):
Railway stations, particularly in urban centers, are often part of larger transit-oriented development projects that
integrate residential, office, and retail spaces with transportation infrastructure.
• Business Complexes:
Some stations have adjacent office buildings, co-working spaces, or business centers, making it convenient for
professionals to work and commute efficiently.
• Hotels and Accommodation:
In large cities or tourist destinations, railway stations often have hotels, guest houses, or dormitories in close proximity
for travelers who need short-term accommodations.

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PUBLIC AND GOVERNMENTAL SERVICES :

• Tourist Information Centers:
Some major railway stations have tourist information centers where travelers can get details about local attractions,
transportation, and accommodations.
• Government Offices:
Some railway stations have counters or small offices where government services such as tax collection, licensing, and
registration can be accessed.
• Railway Museums:
Certain stations, especially historical ones, have railway museums or heritage centers where the history of Indian
Railways is displayed for educational purposes.

LOGISTICS AND FREIGHT HANDLING :

• Cargo Handling:
Some stations function as cargo hubs where goods are loaded and unloaded. These stations are crucial for the
transport of bulk goods like coal, agricultural produce, or industrial materials.
• Parcel and Courier Services:
Railway stations often have dedicated facilities for handling parcel services, allowing for the movement of small cargo,
courier deliveries, and packages across the country.

ENTERTAINMENT AND LEISURE :

• Multiplexes :
In certain large or modern stations, there may be cinema halls, gaming arcades, or recreational spaces where
passengers can spend time, especially if they have long waiting hours.

• Live Music or Performances:

In cities like Mumbai and Chennai, railway stations occasionally host live music performances, art exhibitions, and
street theater, turning the space into a cultural center.

SOCIAL AND WELFARE SERVICES :

• Shelters and Aid for the Homeless:
Some railway stations, especially in large cities, serve as temporary shelters for homeless people or migrants. NGO-run
programs often provide food, clothing, and medical aid in these spaces.
• Child Welfare Centers:
Stations are often points where child welfare organizations and NGOs work to rescue abandoned, missing, or
trafficked children. These services include providing shelter and rehabilitation for children found at railway stations.
• Health Services:
Some railway stations offer medical facilities or clinics where travelers and locals can access basic healthcare,
vaccinations, and first-aid services.

COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC SPACES :

• Public Events and Exhibitions:
Some railway stations are used for hosting temporary exhibitions, art shows, book fairs, and cultural performances.
These events engage travelers and the local community, turning stations into vibrant public spaces.
• Street Vendors:
In smaller towns and cities, railway stations often host informal markets where street vendors sell local products,
handicrafts, and food items to travelers and locals alike.
• Public Announcements:
Stations sometimes serve as a space for public announcements, governmental campaigns, and public awareness drives
(e.g., cleanliness campaigns, health awareness, and voter registration drives).

Modern railway stations are no longer just transit hubs but have become vibrant centers that cater to a wide range of
needs - commercial, social, and public. Whether through commercial activities, social outreach programs, or serving as
community hubs, railway stations offer much more than just travel services, making them integral to urban life and
regional development.

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3.24 HOW TOD TRANSFORM RAILWAY STATIONS INTO MODERN, SUSTAINABLE & ECONOMICALLY
VIBRANT HUBS :
Railway stations, while primarily designed for facilitating travel, serve multiple purposes beyond just the movement of
passengers. Over the years, they have evolved into multifunctional hubs that offer a range of activities and services for
passengers, businesses, and the community.

Enhancing Passenger
Economic Growth and Job Reducing Traffic
Convenience and
Creation Congestion and Pollution
Accessibility

• Seamless
• Attracting Businesses • Shift to Public Transport
Connectivity
and Investment • Environmentally
• Walkable and
• Increased Commercial Sustainable
Pedestrian-Friendly
Activity Development
Areas
• Property Value • Encouraging Cycling and
• Reduced Travel
Appreciation Public Spaces
Time

Improving Station Social and Community Revenue Generation

Boosting Tourism
Infrastructure Benefits for Indian Railways

• Station • Affordable Housing

• Tourism-Oriented • Leasing and Rental
Modernization • Improved Social
Development Income
• Better Interaction
• Heritage and • Public-Private
Maintenance and • Inclusive
Cultural Integratio Partnerships (PPP)
Safety Development
• Smart and
Sustainable
Infrastructure

ENHANCING PASSENGER CONVENIENCE AND ACCESSIBILITY :

• Seamless Connectivity:
TOD improves the integration between railway stations and other modes of public transport such as buses, metros,
and taxis, creating a multimodal transportation hub. This helps passengers easily switch between modes of transport,
reducing overall travel time and stress.
• Walkable and Pedestrian-Friendly Areas:
TOD focuses on making the area around the railway station more pedestrian-friendly by improving walkways,
pedestrian bridges, and pathways. This enhances accessibility and encourages people to walk or cycle to the station
rather than using private vehicles, reducing congestion around the station.
• Reduced Travel Time:
The design of TOD promotes residential and commercial developments within walking distance of railway stations.
This reduces the distance people have to travel to reach their workplace or home, leading to faster commutes and
better time management for commuters.

ECONOMIC GROWTH AND JOB CREATION :

• Attracting Businesses and Investment:

Railway stations with TOD development often attract significant investment from businesses, including retail shops,
restaurants, hotels, and office complexes. This boosts the local economy, increases job opportunities, and creates a
vibrant business district around the station.

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• Increased Commercial Activity:

The mixed-use nature of TOD, which includes retail, office, and residential spaces, encourages daily commercial
activities around railway stations. Stations become destinations in themselves, drawing in not only commuters but also
locals and visitors looking to shop, dine, or work.

• Property Value Appreciation:

TOD tends to raise the value of land and property around railway stations, benefiting both the government (in terms
of increased tax revenue) and local property owners. This economic uplift can further fund infrastructure
improvements and station modernization.

REDUCING TRAFFIC CONGESTION AND POLLUTION :

• Shift to Public Transport:

TOD encourages people to use trains and other forms of public transport by making them more convenient and
accessible. This shift reduces the number of private vehicles on the road, easing traffic congestion around railway
stations, especially during peak hours.
• Environmentally Sustainable Development:
By reducing car dependency, TOD helps to lower greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. The increased use of
public transport means less fuel consumption, contributing to a cleaner environment in and around the station area.
• Encouraging Cycling and Public Spaces:
TOD promotes cycling infrastructure, such as bike lanes and bike-sharing stations near railway stations, which further
reduces the reliance on motorized transport. It also focuses on creating open green spaces, parks, and plazas that
enhance the environment and promote healthier lifestyles.

IMPROVING STATION INFRASTRUCTURE :

• Station Modernization:
TOD often leads to the modernization of railway stations, including improved facilities such as better waiting areas,
food courts, restrooms, ticketing systems, and digital information boards. Upgrading these facilities makes the station
more user-friendly and appealing to commuters.
• Better Maintenance and Safety:
Increased commercial and residential activity around the station creates a constant flow of people, leading to
improved safety, security, and maintenance of the station premises. TOD ensures that the station and its surroundings
are well-maintained, clean, and safe for passengers.
• Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure:
TOD encourages the use of smart technologies, such as energy-efficient lighting, green building materials, and waste
management systems, to make the station and surrounding developments more sustainable.

SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY BENEFITS :

• Affordable Housing:
TOD encourages the development of affordable housing options within close proximity to railway stations. This allows
lower-income groups, including railway employees and daily commuters, to live near public transport, reducing their
travel costs and improving their quality of life.
• Improved Social Interaction:
TOD creates vibrant public spaces and community areas around the railway station, fostering social interaction among
residents, commuters, and visitors. Public parks, plazas, and cultural centers become gathering spots, enhancing the
sense of community.
• Inclusive Development:
TOD often includes provisions for differently-abled people by ensuring barrier-free access to transportation services
and public spaces. This inclusive approach makes the railway station accessible to all citizens, irrespective of physical
limitations.

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BOOSTING TOURISM :
• Tourism-Oriented Development:
Western Railway stations located near popular tourist destinations can benefit from TOD by creating tourist-friendly
infrastructure. This can include hotels, shopping complexes, cultural centers, and easy transportation links to tourist
sites, making railway travel more attractive to domestic and international tourists.

• Heritage and Cultural Integration:

Many Western Railway stations have historical significance. TOD can promote the preservation and integration of this
heritage into modern developments, turning stations into cultural landmarks while enhancing their functionality.

REVENUE GENERATION FOR INDIAN RAILWAYS :

• Leasing and Rental Income:

Indian Railways can lease out space for retail outlets, office complexes, and other commercial ventures around TOD
areas, generating significant rental income. This additional revenue can be reinvested in upgrading the railway station
and its infrastructure.

• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):

TOD often attracts public-private partnerships, where private developers invest in infrastructure around railway
stations in exchange for development rights. This reduces the financial burden on the government while enabling
large-scale station development.

Mumbai’s Western Railway line is a prime candidate for TOD implementation, especially at stations like Bandra or
Andheri, Borivali, Dadar where dense urban development already surrounds the station.

TOD CAN :
• Transform existing congested areas into organized urban spaces.
• Improve last-mile connectivity with efficient bus, rickshaw, or cycling options.
• Create new commercial and residential zones, making commuting more convenient.
• Reduce traffic bottlenecks by encouraging the use of public transport and reducing the number of private vehicles
on the road.

Transit-Oriented Development can significantly help Western Railway stations develop into modern, sustainable, and
economically vibrant hubs. By encouraging the use of public transport, creating mixed-use urban spaces, and
improving accessibility, TOD has the potential to transform railway stations into key drivers of urban growth, reduce
environmental impact, and enhance the overall commuter experience.

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3.25 HOW THE RAILWAY STAFF GETS INFORMED ABOUT TRAIN DELAYS :
Railway staff are notified about potential train delays through a combination of real-time monitoring systems,
communication with train crew, and operational control centers.

1. Centralized Train 2. Communication with 4. Train Schedule

3. Operational Control
Control Systems : Train Crew : Software :
Centers :
• Real-Time GPS • Driver and Guard • Timetable Deviation
• Train Traffic
Tracking Reports Monitoring
Management
• Automatic Signal • Emergency • Expected Arrival
• Manual Delay Alerts
Systems Situations Updates

6. External Factors 7. Automated

5. Trackside Sensors (Weather, Passenger Information
and Signals : Infrastructure) : Systems :
• Track Occupancy
Sensors • Weather • Announcements
• Signal Delays Disruptions • Mobile Apps and
• Track Maintenance Websites
or Blockages

1. CENTRALIZED TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEMS :

• Real-Time GPS Tracking:

Most modern trains are equipped with GPS tracking systems that constantly send location data to the centralized
railway control room. This real-time data allows the control center to monitor train movements and detect delays or
slowdowns. If the train is running behind schedule based on its current location and expected time, the system flags
the delay, and staff are notified.

• Automatic Signal Systems:

Railway signal systems are often linked to a control network that monitors the train’s movement. If a train is delayed
due to signal issues or congestion on the tracks, this information is sent directly to the control room.

2. COMMUNICATION WITH TRAIN CREW :

• Driver and Guard Reports:

The train’s driver or guard communicates directly with the control center or stationmaster to report any issues that
could cause a delay. This could include problems with the locomotive, track conditions, unscheduled stops, or any
other unexpected events (e.g., accidents, weather conditions).

• Emergency Situations:
If the train encounters an emergency situation such as a breakdown, accident, or medical emergency, the train crew
informs the control center immediately, which in turn updates the staff about the potential delay.

3. OPERATIONAL CONTROL CENTERS :

• Train Traffic Management:

Every railway zone or division has a centralized Operations Control Center (OCC) that oversees the movement of all
trains in its jurisdiction. The OCC manages train schedules, tracks real-time movements, and makes adjustments to
train routes if needed (such as during congestion or emergencies). If there is a delay, the OCC is the first to know and
informs the relevant station staff.

• Manual Delay Alerts:

If a delay is expected due to a specific reason (track maintenance, signal failure, weather disruptions, etc.), the control
center manually sends alerts to the stations along the route, informing the staff to update passengers

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4. TRAIN SCHEDULE SOFTWARE :

• Timetable Deviation Monitoring:

Railway staff use specialized scheduling software that compares the actual running time of a train with its planned
timetable. Any deviations from the schedule are automatically flagged in the system, and the staff are notified. These
deviations could result from various reasons, such as other delayed trains blocking the route, infrastructure issues, or
operational bottlenecks.

• Expected Arrival Updates:

Stationmasters and other railway staff use software that provides real-time updates on the expected arrival times of
trains. If the system predicts a significant delay, the staff is alerted to inform passengers.

5. TRACKSIDE SENSORS AND SIGNALS :

• Track Occupancy Sensors:

Some railway networks use sensors placed along the tracks that detect whether a train has passed a particular point. If
the train does not arrive at the sensor when expected, it triggers an alert indicating a possible delay. This information
is relayed back to the control center, which informs station staff.

• Signal Delays:
Train delays can also occur due to signal failures or congestion on the tracks. If trains are held up due to signaling
problems, this information is captured by the signal monitoring system and transmitted to railway staff.

6. EXTERNAL FACTORS (WEATHER, INFRASTRUCTURE) :

• Weather Disruptions:
If bad weather is affecting train schedules, such as heavy rain, fog, or snow, the control center proactively monitors
weather forecasts and updates staff about potential delays. Staff are notified about speed restrictions, reduced
visibility, or other safety measures that might slow down trains.

• Track Maintenance or Blockages:

Scheduled track maintenance or unscheduled track obstructions (e.g., trees on the tracks, accidents) are reported to
the railway authorities, who then inform station staff about expected delays.

7. AUTOMATED PASSENGER INFORMATION SYSTEMS :

• Announcements:
Automated systems in stations receive data from the central control system and automatically update digital boards
and public address systems. This ensures that both passengers and staff are aware of any delays.

• Mobile Apps and Websites:

In many modern railway systems, staff also monitor real-time train status updates via mobile apps like M- Indicator,
Yatri & websites. These platforms provide real-time information about train locations, delays, and estimated arrival
times, which staff can relay to passengers.

Railway staff are informed about potential delays through a combination of real-time monitoring technologies,
communication from train crews, operational control centers, and automated systems. These systems ensure that any
delay is identified quickly and that passengers and staff are promptly updated.

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3.26 RAILWAY STATION MAINTENANCE :

Maintaining railway stations and tracks is crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and comfort for passengers. Various
maintenance protocols and practices are followed to keep both the physical infrastructure and the surrounding areas
in good condition.

MAINTENANCE

Safety and Security Landscaping and

Track Maintenance Station Maintenance
Systems External Areas

• Regular Inspections • Cleaning Protocols • Surveillance

• Grounds
• Track Geometry • Structural System Checks
Maintenance
Measurement Inspections • Fire Safety
• Pavement and
• Ballast • Electrical and Equipment
Access Path
Maintenance Lighting • Emergency
Maintenance
• Rail Replacement Maintenance Response Drills
• Switch and • Signage and
Crossing Information
Maintenance Displays

Equipment and Environmental Technology Scheduled

Facility Maintenance Considerations Integration Maintenance Programs

• Predictive • Preventive
• Elevators and
• Waste Maintenance Maintenance
Escalators • Corrective
Management • Maintenance
• Ticketing Machines
• Pollution Control Management Maintenance
• Public Restrooms
Systems

TRACK MAINTENANCE :

• Regular Inspections:
Routine inspections are conducted to assess the condition of tracks, including rail integrity, alignment, and ballast
condition. Inspectors use specialized equipment like ultrasonic rail testers to detect internal flaws.
• Track Geometry Measurement:
Technologies like track geometry cars are used to measure track alignment, elevation, and curvature. These
measurements help identify any deviations from safety standards that require corrective action.
• Ballast Maintenance:

Regular maintenance of ballast (the stone foundation that supports the track) is essential. This includes re-leveling,
cleaning, and replacing ballast to ensure proper drainage and stability.
• Rail Replacement:
When rails show significant wear or damage, they are replaced according to a predetermined schedule or as needed
based on inspection results. This may involve removing old rails and installing new ones.
• Switch and Crossing Maintenance:
Switches and crossings are critical points in the rail network. Regular inspections and maintenance are performed to
ensure they operate smoothly and safely.

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STATION MAINTENANCE :

• Cleaning Protocols:
Regular cleaning of platforms, waiting areas, restrooms, and other public spaces is conducted to ensure hygiene and
comfort for passengers. This includes sweeping, mopping, and waste disposal.
• Structural Inspections:
Routine inspections of the station’s structural elements, such as roofs, walls, and platforms, are performed to identify
any signs of wear, water damage, or structural integrity issues.
• Electrical and Lighting Maintenance:
Regular checks of electrical systems, including lighting, signage, and surveillance systems, ensure safety and
functionality. Maintenance includes replacing bulbs, testing circuits, and upgrading systems as necessary.
• Signage and Information Displays:
Maintenance protocols include checking and updating directional signage and electronic displays to ensure passengers
receive accurate and timely information.

SAFETY AND SECURITY SYSTEMS :

• Surveillance System Checks:

Regular maintenance of CCTV cameras and security systems is essential for ensuring passenger safety. This includes
checking for proper functioning and addressing any technical issues.
• Fire Safety Equipment:
Fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency exits are inspected and maintained according to safety regulations. This
ensures that the station is prepared for emergencies.
• Emergency Response Drills:
Regular training and drills for station staff on emergency response protocols help maintain readiness in case of
incidents. These drills often involve collaboration with local emergency services.

LANDSCAPING AND EXTERNAL AREAS :

• Grounds Maintenance:
Regular landscaping, including mowing lawns, trimming bushes, and maintaining flower beds, enhances the aesthetic
appeal of the station and provides a pleasant environment for passengers.
• Pavement and Access Path Maintenance:
Regular inspections and maintenance of pavements and access paths are conducted to ensure they are free from
hazards, such as cracks or debris, making them safe for pedestrian use.

EQUIPMENT AND FACILITY MAINTENANCE :

• Elevators and Escalators:

Regular maintenance of elevators and escalators is essential for accessibility. This includes routine inspections,
lubrication, and servicing to prevent breakdowns.
• Ticketing Machines:
Self-service ticketing machines and kiosks undergo regular maintenance checks to ensure they are operational and
stocked with necessary supplies, such as paper for receipts.
• Public Restrooms:
Maintenance protocols include regular cleaning, restocking supplies (toilet paper, soap), and repairing fixtures to
ensure hygiene and comfort.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS :

• Waste Management:
Effective waste disposal and recycling protocols are implemented to manage litter and maintain cleanliness. This
includes regular waste collection and educational initiatives for passengers.

• Pollution Control:
Measures to control noise, air, and water pollution around railway stations are also considered in maintenance
protocols. This may include regular monitoring and compliance with environmental regulations.

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TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION :

• Predictive Maintenance:
Advanced technologies, such as sensors and data analytics, are increasingly used to predict maintenance needs based
on real-time data. This approach allows for proactive maintenance, reducing downtime and improving safety.
• Maintenance Management Systems:
Many railway authorities use computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) to track maintenance
schedules, work orders, and inventory for parts and supplies. This streamlines the maintenance process and ensures
timely interventions.

SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS :

• Preventive Maintenance:
Regularly scheduled preventive maintenance programs are implemented to address issues before they become
serious problems. This includes routine checks and replacements according to established timelines.
• Corrective Maintenance:
When maintenance inspections reveal issues, corrective actions are taken promptly to address the specific problems
identified.

These maintenance protocols are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and comfort of railway stations and tracks.
By following systematic inspection routines, employing modern technologies, and maintaining open communication
among staff, railway authorities can provide a high standard of service and infrastructure integrity. Regular and
effective maintenance not only enhances the passenger experience but also contributes to the overall efficiency and
sustainability of the railway network.

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3.27 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF WESTERN RAILWAY BEFORE AND AFTER ITS DEVELOPMENT :

ASPECT BEFORE DEVELOPMENT (19TH- AFTER DEVELOPMENT (21ST

20TH CENTURY) CENTURY)

1. Historical
Overview
Origin Western Railway has evolved into a vast
Western Railway traces its roots back to 1853 network covering Maharashtra, Gujarat,
with the first train in India running between Rajasthan, and parts of Madhya Pradesh,
Bori Bunder (Mumbai) and Thane. with a focus on both suburban and long-
distance travel.

Infrastructure Basic single-track lines, steam locomotives, Modernized infrastructure, electrified

minimal facilities for passengers. lines, high-speed corridors, automatic
signaling, and advanced train engines.

Service Primarily focused on freight (especially Expanded passenger services, including

cotton and textile goods), with limited suburban transit, long-distance express
passenger services. trains, and luxury services like the
Rajdhani Express.

Stations Simpler stations with limited capacity for Modernized stations with extended
handling large crowds and fewer platforms, air-conditioned waiting areas,
amenities. digital displays, elevators, and escalators.

2.
PASSENGER
SERVICES
Frequency Limited train services with lower Suburban services operate at high
frequency, especially during off-peak frequency, with trains running every few
hours. minutes during peak hours. Long-distance
services are more punctual.

Capacity Limited capacity, leading to overcrowding, Increased capacity, with 12-15 coach
especially during festivals and peak suburban trains and reserved/unreserved
seasons. long-distance coaches.

Comfort Minimal comfort, with wooden seats, no Cushioned seating, air conditioning, bio-
air conditioning, and poor sanitation. toilets, improved sanitation, and
enhanced food services in long-distance
trains. Various travel classes offered,
including Executive Class and Sleeper
Class.

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ASPECT BEFORE DEVELOPMENT (19TH- AFTER DEVELOPMENT (21ST

20TH CENTURY) CENTURY)

3. Technology
&
Infrastructure
Signaling Manual signaling systems leading to delays Advanced automatic signaling systems,
and accidents. electronic interlocking, and anti-collision
devices improving safety and punctuality.

Tracks and Single-track lines, steam-based engines Electrified lines, faster travel on high-
Engines requiring frequent maintenance. speed tracks, and improved track
capacity.

Ticketing Manual ticketing from physical counters E-ticketing, smart cards, QR-code-based
at stations. ticketing, and mobile apps simplifying
suburban train ticketing.

4. Commuter
Experience

Crowding Overcrowded trains, with passengers While crowding persists, additional trains
often traveling in unsafe conditions. and extended platforms have helped
reduce congestion.

Safety Frequent accidents and delays due to Modernized safety features, including
outdated systems and overcrowding. automatic signaling, CCTV cameras, and
better maintenance, drastically reducing
accidents.

Amenities Limited capacity, leading to overcrowding, Increased capacity, with 12-15 coach
especially during festivals and peak suburban trains and reserved/unreserved
seasons. long-distance coaches.

Comfort Few amenities, dirty stations, limited Stations now feature clean restrooms,
access to food, water, and restrooms. food kiosks, seating areas, digital displays,
air-conditioned waiting rooms, and
onboard Wi-Fi for long-distance
passengers.

5. Suburban
Network
(Mumbai)
Scale Relatively small suburban network serving Expanded network covering a vast area,
a limited area. serving millions daily with extended lines
and more junctions.

Frequency Fewer trains with common overcrowding High-frequency trains, especially during
during rush hours. peak hours, with special ladies'
compartments and first-class sections.

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ASPECT BEFORE DEVELOPMENT (19TH- AFTER DEVELOPMENT (21ST

20TH CENTURY) CENTURY)

Accessibility Limited accessibility for elderly and Improved accessibility through elevators,
disabled passengers. escalators, ramps, and dedicated
compartments for disabled and senior
citizens.

6. Freight
Services
Focus Primarily focused on freight, especially Passenger services now take precedence,
transporting cotton, textiles, and but freight services continue with the
agricultural produce. transportation of perishables, petroleum
products, and containers.

Infrastructure Limited infrastructure for handling large Improved logistics infrastructure,

freight volumes, with slow freight trains dedicated freight corridors, and faster
due to single-track lines. freight trains.

7.
Environmental
Efforts
Steam engines contributed to pollution, Electrification of railway lines, solar panels
Sustainability
and stations lacked sustainable design at stations, waste recycling, rainwater
elements. harvesting, energy-efficient LED lighting,
and eco-friendly station designs have
improved sustainability efforts.

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3.28 PUBLIC TOILET :

A well-functioning toilet with a continuous water supply, clean stalls, basins and changing rooms is important for all
passengers, especially women, who go through multiple health issues due to the unavailability of clean washrooms.

ISSUES

Safety and
Gender Less Cleanliness
Security for Bad Planning Less Function
Diversity Maintenance Issues
Women

GENDER DIVERSITY :

CURRENT CHALLENGES ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATION

• Public toilets are often designed with a binary • Incorporate gender-neutral toilets to accommodate
gender division (male/female), ignoring the needs of all gender identities.
the transgender and non-binary communities.
• Lack of inclusive signage and facilities such as • Design spacious, well-marked restrooms with
gender-neutral toilets or family restrooms. privacy and clear signage to indicate inclusivity.
• Cultural stigmas and societal norms can make it
uncomfortable or unsafe for non-binary individuals • Provide family restrooms for caregivers, elderly
to use public facilities. passengers, or those with children.

SAFETY AND SECURITY FOR WOMEN :

CURRENT CHALLENGES ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATION

• Lack of surveillance: Many public toilets are located • CCTV cameras should be installed at the entrances
in isolated areas with poor lighting and minimal of public toilets, ensuring privacy while providing
security. security.
• Harassment concerns: Women may feel unsafe • Ensure adequate lighting inside and around the
using public toilets, particularly in crowded, poorly toilets, particularly at night.
managed spaces. • Design toilet blocks close to high-traffic areas to
• Lack of emergency facilities: No clear provision for reduce isolation.
help or distress signals in the case of emergencies. • Provide panic buttons or emergency help points
inside the facilities for immediate assistance.

BAD PLANNING :

CURRENT CHALLENGES ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATION

• Public toilets in railway stations are often positioned • Position public toilets close to major access points,
far from the platforms, creating inconvenience, such as platforms and waiting areas, with multiple
especially for passengers in a hurry. access routes to avoid congestion.
• Narrow or poorly designed entryways result in • Design wide corridors and entries for easy flow of
queues and overcrowding, particularly during peak passengers.
travel times. • Prioritize natural lighting and ventilation with
• Lack of thought in ventilation and natural lighting, windows, skylights, or exhaust systems to maintain
making spaces feel congested and unhygienic. freshness and air circulation.

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LESS FUNCTION :

CURRENT CHALLENGES ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATION

• Toilets are often designed without considering the • Include accessible toilets for individuals with
diverse needs of users, including people with disabilities, with ramps, grab bars, and ample space
disabilities, elderly, and parents with children. for wheelchairs.
• Inadequate facilities for menstruating women, • Designate menstrual hygiene facilities, such as
including the lack of sanitary disposal units and sanitary napkin vending machines, disposal units,
clean water. and separate wash basins.
• Absence of baby-changing stations or privacy for • Provide baby-changing stations and nursing rooms
caregivers. for parents and caregivers.

LESS MAINTENANCE :

CURRENT CHALLENGES ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATION

• Public toilets often suffer from poor maintenance • Use durable materials such as stainless steel for
due to underfunding, staff shortages, or poor fixtures, anti-vandal partitions, and non-slip tiles
management. that are easy to clean and maintain.
• Damaged fixtures, malfunctioning taps, and broken • Incorporate self-cleaning technologies, such as
doors are common in poorly maintained restrooms. sensor-based faucets, auto-flush systems, and
automatic air fresheners.
• Ensure regular maintenance schedules and staffing
for cleaning and repairs.

CLEANLINESS ISSUES :

CURRENT CHALLENGES ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATION

• Overcrowding and lack of cleaning staff lead to • Install touchless technologies, such as sensor-based
rapid deterioration in cleanliness. faucets, soap dispensers, and hand dryers to reduce
• Improper waste disposal, especially menstrual surface contact and improve hygiene.
waste, often results in clogged toilets and • Ensure frequent cleaning schedules and real-time
unsanitary conditions. cleaning alerts for staff.
• Lack of cleaning materials like soap, hand sanitizers, • Provide adequate waste disposal units, including
or tissue paper further reduces hygiene standards. bio-degradable and menstrual waste bins, with clear
signage for proper disposal.

SOLUTIONS :

Designing Inclusive, Safe, and Functional Public Toilets :

• Innovative layouts that segregate high-traffic areas from restrooms, using wide entryways to avoid overcrowding.
• Installing security features like panic buttons, proper surveillance, and well-lit spaces to ensure the safety of women
and vulnerable groups.
• Implementing environmentally sustainable measures, such as water-saving fixtures, greywater recycling, and solar-
powered lighting.
• Frequent inspections and data-based solutions for monitoring cleanliness, such as feedback systems where users
can report issues via apps or kiosks.
• Creating modular toilets that can be easily expanded or relocated based on traffic patterns and usage statistics.
• By addressing these points, the design of public toilets in railway stations can improve not only the functionality and
hygiene of the facilities but also ensure inclusivity, safety, and sustainability.

By addressing these points, the design of public toilets in railway stations can improve not only the functionality and
hygiene of the facilities but also ensure inclusivity, safety, and sustainability.

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3.29 EVOLUTION OF SUBURBAN TRAINS : FROM 3-CAR TO 12-CAR AND 15-CAR :

HISTORICAL EVOLUTION

3-Car Trains (Early Stages) 12-Car Trains (1970s-1990s) 15-Car Trains (2009 Onwards)

• Origin : In the early 20th century, • Reason for Expansion: With Mumbai’s • Further Expansion: By the 2000s, the
suburban trains in cities like population exploding, suburban trains number of daily commuters using
Mumbai (then Bombay) began became increasingly overcrowded. To the Mumbai suburban rail system
with 3-car trains to cater to the handle the rapidly growing passenger reached millions, and 12-car trains
growing urban population and load, the capacity was expanded from became insufficient, leading to the
industrial workforce. 3-car to 9-car and eventually 12-car introduction of 15-car trains in 2009.
• Capacity : These trains had limited trains by the 1970s. • Infrastructure Upgrades: Major
capacity and were primarily aimed • Platform Extension: The switch infrastructural changes were
at serving the daily commute of required the extension of platforms needed, including lengthening of
workers between the suburbs and to accommodate longer trains, as platforms and further improvements
the city center. well as the modernization of signaling to signaling and operational systems.
• Infrastructure : The infrastructure systems to handle the increased train • Efficiency and Safety: The 15-car
of tracks, platforms, and stations traffic. trains have enhanced operational
was basic, and the relatively low • Operational Efficiency: 12-car trains efficiency and safety, providing relief
population meant that fewer significantly increased passenger to passengers by reducing
trains were sufficient. capacity and reduced overcrowding overcrowding and enhancing
during peak hours, allowing more comfort, especially during peak
commuters to travel safely. travel times.

WHY IT EVOLVED

Increase in Suburban
Population Boom Overcrowding Issues Government Policies
Spread
Mumbai’s population The initial 3-car trains As suburban areas The Indian government and
surged in the latter half of quickly became inadequate developed and more local authorities recognized
the 20th century due to as the number of daily people moved away from the need to modernize and
industrialization, migration, passengers outstripped the city center, the need expand suburban rail
and the overall expansion capacity. People were often for higher capacity and services to support the
of the city. Suburban trains forced to hang out of doors more frequent trains grew. growing population, leading
became the lifeline for daily or sit on rooftops due to to initiatives that
commuters. overcrowding, leading to encouraged the switch to
accidents and unsafe travel longer trains.
conditions.

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ISSUES WITH THE EVOLUTION

Platform Constraints Track Capacity Safety Concerns

One of the biggest challenges in With the introduction of longer trains Overcrowding has led to accidents,
moving from 3-car to 12-car and came the need for better track with passengers often getting injured
eventually 15-car trains was the need management. Many of the suburban while trying to board or disembark
for platform extension. Many rail tracks were not equipped to from overcrowded trains. Despite the
suburban stations were initially built handle both longer trains and the longer trains, peak-hour services
for shorter trains, and retrofitting increase in train frequency required to continue to struggle with safety due
them posed logistical and financial reduce overcrowding. to the overwhelming number of
challenges. passengers.

Maintenance Issues Funding and Budget Constraints

The increase in train length and Expanding platforms, modernizing

frequency also means more wear and stations, and upgrading signaling
tear on infrastructure, leading to systems required significant investment.
frequent maintenance needs. This Budgetary constraints have slowed the
has, at times, caused delays and speed at which some stations and tracks
affected operational efficiency. could be upgraded, especially during the
transition phases.

CURRENT SCENARIO

15-Car Trains Technology Integration Infrastructure Upgrades Future Expansion

15-car trains are now The transition from shorter Continuous upgrades are There are plans to further
standard on some of the to longer trains has been underway, including further improve suburban train
busiest suburban routes, accompanied by platform extensions, services with projects such
especially in Mumbai, to technological upgrades, enhanced accessibility as the Mumbai Urban
manage the heavy such as the adoption of features like lifts and Transport Project (MUTP),
passenger load. These automatic signaling escalators, and improved which aims to introduce
trains have provided systems, real-time safety measures at stations more 15-car trains, better
significant relief in terms of monitoring, and integration and on trains. signaling, and enhanced
capacity and safety but are with other urban transport passenger safety.
not yet implemented across modes (buses, metros)
the entire network. through multi-modal hubs.

With the Dedicated Suburban Corridor and the potential introduction of more semi-high-speed trains, the suburban rail
network is poised for further modernization.

The evolution of suburban trains from 3-car to 12-car and 15-car configurations reflects the pressing need to accommodate
a growing population, address safety and operational challenges, and provide a sustainable public transport solution in
rapidly expanding urban areas.

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3.30 HOW THE PLACEMENT OF STAIRCASES, LIFTS, AND ESCALATORS AT RAILWAY STATIONS
IS DECIDED :
The placement of staircases, lifts, and escalators at railway stations is a critical aspect of station design, influencing
passenger flow, safety, accessibility, and overall efficiency. Several factors guide the decisions regarding their location.

PLACEMENT OF STAIRCASES, LIFTS, AND ESCALATORS

Passenger Flow and Access to Platforms Accessibility Platform Width and

Circulation Patterns and Key Areas Requirements Space Constraints

• Foot Traffic • Proximity to • Universal Design • Space Availability

Analysis Platforms Principles • Avoiding
• Separation of • Connection to Key • Dedicated Facilities Obstructions
Movement Station Zones

Passenger Safety and Emergency Multi-Modal

Segmentation Considerations Connectivity

• Multiple Entry/Exit • Emergency • Integration with

Points Evacuation Routes Other Transport
• High-Frequency • Fire Safety Modes
Areas Regulations

PASSENGER FLOW AND CIRCULATION PATTERNS :

• FOOT TRAFFIC ANALYSIS : A detailed study of passenger movement and traffic volumes helps determine the
optimal locations for staircases, lifts, and escalators. This analysis identifies high-traffic areas such as entry points,
exits, platforms, ticket counters, and concourses where crowding typically occurs.
Stations with high volumes of passengers, particularly during peak hours, require strategically placed circulation
elements to prevent bottlenecks and ensure smooth passenger flow.

• SEPARATION OF MOVEMENT : Staircases, lifts, and escalators are often placed to separate the movement of
passengers arriving at and departing from platforms. This reduces crowd congestion on platforms and at access
points, allowing for a smoother transition.
In many stations, separate stairs/escalators for boarding and deboarding platforms help minimize chaos during rush
hours.

ACCESS TO PLATFORMS AND KEY AREAS :

PROXIMITY TO PLATFORMS : The primary function of escalators and staircases is to provide quick and easy access
between concourses and platforms. They are often positioned near platform entrances/exits and at the center of
platforms to enable faster dispersal of passengers.
Escalators are usually located in areas with the highest vertical movement, such as between platforms and concourses
or between platforms and overbridges/underpasses.

CONNECTION TO KEY STATION ZONES : Staircases, lifts, and escalators are also strategically placed to connect
passengers to key station zones, such as ticketing counters, waiting rooms, food courts, washrooms, and exits.
In major stations with multi-level designs, these facilities ensure seamless vertical connectivity between different
functional areas.

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ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS :

UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES : To comply with accessibility standards, stations must ensure that lifts are positioned
where they are easily accessible to disabled passengers, the elderly, and those with reduced mobility. These lifts are
often located close to main entrances/exits, platforms, and parking areas to minimize travel distance for such
passengers.
Additionally, stations are required to provide elevators or ramps that connect to all floors, concourses, and platforms,
ensuring full accessibility.

DEDICATED FACILITIES : In many stations, lifts and escalators have specific zones marked for disabled and senior
citizens to use, often placed near entrances or exit points to reduce the travel distance for these passengers.

PLATFORM WIDTH AND SPACE CONSTRAINTS :

SPACE AVAILABILITY : The design and layout of platforms are crucial in determining the size and location of staircases,
lifts, and escalators. Narrow platforms limit the space available for large staircases or escalators, requiring compact or
modular solutions.
For stations where platforms are wider, larger and more elaborate staircases, escalators, and lifts can be placed
without impeding the movement of commuters.

AVOIDING OBSTRUCTIONS : Lifts and escalators are positioned in ways that do not obstruct other essential services,
such as waiting areas, ticketing zones, or security checkpoints. Care is taken to ensure that these facilities do not block
emergency exits, fire lanes, or evacuation routes.

PASSENGER SEGMENTATION :

HIGH-FREQUENCY AREAS : Escalators are generally installed in high-frequency zones such as interchanging platforms
or stations where a large number of passengers are expected to switch trains or transfer between long-distance and
suburban services.
The placement also considers whether the station has frequent pedestrian traffic with luggage, as escalators are useful
for such passengers in high-volume transit hubs.

MULTIPLE ENTRY/EXIT POINTS : Stations with multiple entry/exit points may have several staircases, lifts, or escalators
placed at different ends of the platform to prevent crowding at a single point and allow faster dispersal of passengers.

SAFETY AND EMERGENCY CONSIDERATIONS :

EMERGENCY EVACUATION ROUTES : Staircases are usually prioritized as primary emergency evacuation routes since
escalators can be hazardous during panic situations or power outages. Lifts may also be designed with emergency-use
functionality, especially for the elderly or disabled.

FIRE SAFETY REGULATIONS : The placement of staircases and lifts is influenced by fire safety regulations. Fire-resistant
staircases are often required in stations, and lifts may need to be located within fireproof enclosures to ensure safe
use during emergencies.

MULTI-MODAL CONNECTIVITY :

INTEGRATION WITH OTHER TRANSPORT MODES : In large multi-modal transportation hubs, lifts and escalators are
placed in proximity to areas connecting to other modes of transport, such as bus stations, metro stops, or parking
areas, ensuring seamless transfer for commuters.

These are placed strategically to minimize the walking distance between different transportation options and provide
convenient access for commuters with luggage or mobility challenges.

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3.31 HOW ARCHITECTURAL SPACES AT RAILWAY STATIONS PLAY A CRITICAL ROLE IN

PROVIDING RELIEF TO COMMUTERS :
Architectural spaces at railway stations play a critical role in providing relief to commuters, especially in large, bustling
hubs like those in urban centers. Well-designed spaces improve the overall experience, reduce stress, and enhance
safety, comfort, and efficiency for travelers.

1. Efficient Flow of 7. Technology-Integrated

5. Retail and Food Outlets
Movement Spaces

2. Waiting Areas and

8. Multi-Modal Integration
Lounges
HOW ARCHITECTURAL
SPACES PROVIDE RELIEF
TO COMMUTERS
3. Restrooms and Sanitation 9. Security and Safety
Facilities Features

4. Shaded and Open-Air 10. Rest and Relaxation

6. Lighting and Ventilation
Spaces Areas

1. EFFICIENT FLOW OF MOVEMENT :

CLEAR CIRCULATION PATHS :

Well-planned corridors, platforms, and concourses ensure smooth pedestrian flow, reducing congestion and
bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours.
Zoning helps separate functions like boarding, ticketing, and waiting areas, preventing chaos and overcrowding.

WIDE PLATFORMS :
Ample platform space allows passengers to move freely without feeling crowded, which is especially important for
commuters rushing to board or disembark trains.
Multiple access points (staircases, ramps, escalators) ease crowd management and help avoid bottlenecks at busy
times.

2. WAITING AREAS AND LOUNGES :

SEATING AND LOUNGES :

Comfortable, well-designed waiting areas with adequate seating provide respite for commuters, especially for those
waiting for delayed trains.
Air-conditioned lounges, premium waiting areas, and well-ventilated spaces with natural light offer a calming
environment, particularly useful for long-distance travelers or elderly passengers.

FAMILY ZONES :
Dedicated spaces for families or commuters with children provide safety and comfort, reducing the chaos in general
areas.

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ACCESSIBILITY FOR DISABLED PASSENGERS :

Well-planned architectural spaces ensure ramp access, wider doorways, and disabled-friendly toilets,
making it easier for differently-abled passengers to navigate the station.

3. RESTROOMS AND SANITATION FACILITIES :

ADEQUATE AND CLEAN RESTROOMS :

Strategically placed, well-maintained public restrooms that are easily accessible provide relief to commuters,
especially during long journeys.
Gender-diverse and family restrooms offer additional comfort for different groups of passengers, reducing the stress
of finding appropriate facilities.

HYGIENE AND CLEANLINESS :

Clean and modern sanitation facilities with proper ventilation, sufficient lighting, and frequent maintenance reduce
the discomfort associated with public toilets and ensure hygiene.

4. SHADED AND OPEN-AIR SPACES :

COURTYARDS AND OPEN SPACES :

Open-air courtyards or small parks provide a breathing space amid the otherwise congested station environment,
allowing commuters to relax and rejuvenate.
These spaces can also be used to promote sustainability, with green roofs, vertical gardens, or seating areas under
trees, helping reduce the heat and stress associated with urban transit hubs.

SHADED AREAS :
Canopies or covered walkways on platforms and entrance zones provide relief from heat and rain, creating a
comfortable space for commuters to wait or move through the station.

5. RETAIL AND FOOD OUTLETS :

CONVENIENCE SHOPS AND KIOSKS :

The availability of retail outlets, food stalls, and beverage kiosks within the station provides immediate access to
refreshments, allowing commuters to relax or pass time during delays.
These spaces offer a convenient way for commuters to buy necessities without leaving the station, thus reducing the
stress of travel.

INTEGRATED DINING AREAS :

Dining spaces with adequate seating near food outlets allow passengers to enjoy meals comfortably before or after
their journeys. Having such zones at key points in the station relieves the congestion of random seating or crowding
around platforms.

6. LIGHTING AND VENTILATION :

NATURAL LIGHT :
Stations that are designed to maximize the use of natural light create a more pleasant atmosphere for commuters,
reducing the claustrophobic feeling often associated with poorly lit public spaces.
Skylights, large windows, and open areas help bring in light, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing
the passenger experience.

VENTILATION :
Good ventilation, especially in waiting areas, concourses, and restrooms, helps maintain air quality, making the
environment more comfortable for commuters, especially in hot or humid climates.
Passive ventilation systems combined with air-conditioning provide thermal comfort to passengers during peak
summer months.

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7. TECHNOLOGY-INTEGRATED SPACES :

DIGITAL INFORMATION BOARDS :

Well-placed, easy-to-read digital displays provide real-time updates on train schedules, reducing the uncertainty and
stress associated with delays.
Digital ticket kiosks, automated check-in systems, and mobile app integrations reduce the need for long queues,
making the commuter experience smoother.

WAYFINDING AND SIGNAGE :

Clear and strategically placed signage and wayfinding systems help guide commuters efficiently through the station,
reducing confusion, especially for first-time travelers.
Multi-lingual signage and digital maps add to accessibility and ease of navigation for local and international
passengers.

8. MULTI-MODAL INTEGRATION :

CONNECTIVITY TO OTHER TRANSPORT SYSTEMS :

Architecturally designed spaces that provide seamless transitions between trains, buses, metros, and even bicycle-
sharing systems offer immense relief to commuters.
They can easily switch modes of transport without leaving the station or walking long distances.

Integrated pedestrian pathways and vehicle drop-off zones close to platforms ensure a smooth connection between
different transportation modes, reducing the hassle of navigating city traffic to access public transport.

9. SECURITY AND SAFETY FEATURES :

CCTV SURVEILLANCE AND SECURITY ZONES :

Stations designed with secure entry and exit points, CCTV cameras, and dedicated security personnel enhance the
safety of commuters, especially women and vulnerable passengers.

EMERGENCY EXIT ROUTES :

Properly marked emergency exits, fire-safety measures, and wide evacuation routes give commuters confidence that
their safety is prioritized, reducing anxiety, especially in crowded spaces.

10. REST AND RELAXATION AREAS :

QUIET ZONES :
Providing quiet waiting zones where passengers can relax in a noise-free environment offers relief from the constant
bustle of the station, especially for those with long waits.
These zones can be equipped with comfortable seating, plants, and soft lighting to create a peaceful atmosphere
within the station.

CONCLUSION :
Architectural design is key to creating railway stations that not only meet the functional needs of commuters but also
provide relief, comfort, and safety. By addressing circulation, comfort zones, safety measures, accessibility, and
amenities, architectural spaces transform the experience from one of stress and inconvenience to a seamless,
enjoyable journey.

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3.32 MUMBAI
3.22.1 ABOUT MUMBAI
Mumbai lies on the Konkan coast on the west coast of India and has a deep natural harbour.
The seven islands that constitute Mumbai were earlier home to communities of Marathi language-speaking Koli
people.For centuries, the seven islands of Bombay were under the control of successive indigenous rulers before
being ceded to the Portuguese Empire, and subsequently to the East India Company in 1661, through the dowry of
Catherine Braganza when she was married off to Charles II of England.

Beginning in 1782, Mumbai was reshaped by the Hornby Vellard project, which undertook reclamation of the area
between the seven islands from the Arabian Sea.Along with the construction of major roads and railways, the
reclamation project, completed in 1845.

Mumbai in the 19th century was characterised by economic and educational development. During the early 20th
century it became a strong base for the Indian independence movement. Upon India's independence in 1947 the
city was incorporated into Bombay State. In 1960, following the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, a new state of
Maharashtra was created with Mumbai as the capital.

Mumbai is the financial, commercial, and entertainment capital of South Asia. Mumbai is often compared to New
York, and the city is home to the Bombay Stock Exchange, situated on Dalal Street. It is also one of the world's top
ten centres of commerce in terms of global financial flow, generating 6.16% of India's GDP,and accounting for 25%
of the nation's industrial output, 70% of maritime trade in India (Mumbai Port Trust, Dharamtar Port and JNPT), and
70% of capital transactions to India's economy.

The city houses important financial institutions and the corporate headquarters of numerous Indian
companies and multinational corporations. The city is also home to some of India's premier scientific and nuclear
institutes and the Hindi and Marathi film industries. Mumbai's business opportunities attract migrants from all over
India

HOW MUMBAI WAS NAMED –

The name Mumbai (Marathi: मुंबई) originated from Mumbā or Mahā-Ambā—the name of the patron Hindu goddess
(kuladevata) Mumbadevi of the native Koli community and from , meaning "mother" in the Marathi language, which
is the mother tongue of the Koli people and the official language of Maharashtra.

According to certain accounts, the Koli community, which hails from Kathiawar and Central Gujarat, is believed to
have introduced their deity Mumba from Kathiawar (Gujarat), where her worship continues to this day.

Other variations recorded in the 16th and the 17th centuries

include: Mombayn (1525), Bombay (1538), Bombain (1552), Bombaym (1552), Monbaym (1554), Mombaim (1563),
Mombaym (1644), Bambaye (1666), Bombaiim (1666), Bombeye (1676), Boon Bay (1690) and Bon Bahia. After
the English gained possession of the city in the 17th century, the Portuguese name was anglicised as Bombay

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3.32.2 HISTORY

1600s 1890 Today

MUMBAI ( EARLY HISTORY ) -

Mumbai is built on what was once an archipelago of seven islands: Isle of
Bombay, Parel, Mazagaon, Mahim, Colaba, Worli, and Old Woman's Island (also
known as Little Colaba).
Perhaps at the beginning of the Common Era, or possibly earlier, they came to be
occupied by the Koli fishing community.

KANHERI CAVES

In the 3rd century BCE, the islands formed part of the Maurya Empire .
The Kanheri Caves in Borivali were excavated from basalt rock in the first century
CE.

Between the 2nd century BCE and 9th century CE, the islands came under the
control of successive indigenous dynasties: Satavahanas, Western
Satraps, Abhira, Vakataka, Kalachuris, Konkan
Mauryas, Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas, before being ruled by the Shilaharas from
810 to 1260.
Some of the oldest edifices in the city built during this period are the Jogeshwari
Caves (between 520 and 525), Elephanta Caves (between the sixth to seventh
century), Walkeshwar Temple (10th century), and Banganga Tank (12th century).
ELEPHANTA CAVES

King Bhimdev founded his kingdom in the region in the late 13th century and
established his capital in Mahikawati (present day Mahim).

The islands were later governed by the independent Gujarat Sultanate, which was
established in 1407. As a result of the Sultanate's support, numerous mosques
were built, with one notable example being the Haji Ali Dargah in Worli. Erected in
1431, this magnificent structure pays homage to the revered Muslim saint, Haji Ali.

HAJI ALI DARGAH

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MUMBAI ( PORTUGUESE AND BRITISH RULE ) -

The Mughal Empire, founded in 1526, was the dominant power in the Indian subcontinent during the mid-16th
century. A Treaty of Bassein was signed with the Portuguese Empire on 23 December 1534. They called the
islands by various names, which finally took the written form Bombaim.

The Portuguese also built several fortifications around the city like the Bombay Castle, Castella de Aguada (Castelo
da Aguada or Bandra Fort), and Madh Fort.

By the middle of the 17th century the growing power of the Dutch Empire forced the English to acquire a station in
western India.
From 1665 to 1666, the English managed to acquire Mahim, Sion, Dharavi, and Wadala.

In accordance with the Royal Charter of 27 March 1668, England leased these islands to the English East India
Company in 1668 for a sum of £10 per annum. In 1687, the English East India Company transferred its
headquarters from Surat to Mumbai.

The Portuguese presence ended in Mumbai when the Marathas under

Peshwa Baji Rao I captured Salsette in 1737, and Bassein in 1739. The British were able to secure Salsette from
the Marathas without violence through the Treaty of Purandar (1776). From 1782 onwards, the city was reshaped
with large-scale civil engineering projects aimed at merging all the seven islands of Bombay .

By 1845, the seven islands coalesced into a single landmass by the Hornby Vellard project via large scale land
reclamation. On 16 April 1853, India's first passenger railway line was established, connecting Mumbai to the
neighbouring town of Thana (now Thane).

The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 transformed Mumbai into one of the largest seaports on the Arabian Sea.
While the city was the capital of the Bombay Presidency, the Indian independence movement fostered the Quit
India Movement in 1942.

MUMBAI ( INDEPENDENT INDIA ) -

After India's independence in 1947, the territory of the Bombay Presidency retained by India was restructured
into Bombay State.

The following decades saw massive expansion of the city and its suburbs. In the late 1960s, Nariman
Point and Cuffe Parade were reclaimed and developed.

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA) was established on 26 January 1975 by
the Government of Maharashtra as an apex body for planning and co-ordination of development activities in
the Mumbai metropolitan region.

The textile industry in Mumbai largely disappeared after the widespread 1982 Great Bombay Textile Strike, in which
nearly 250,000 workers in more than 50 textile mills went on strike.

On 1 October 1990, the Greater Mumbai district was bifurcated to form two revenue districts namely, Mumbai
City and Mumbai Suburban, though they continued to be administered by same Municipal Administration.

The years from 1990 to 2010 saw an increase in violence and terrorism activities. Following the demolition of the
Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, the city was rocked by the Hindu-Muslim riots of 1992–93 in which more than
1,000 people were killed. In 2006, 209 people were killed and over 700 injured when seven bombs exploded on the
city's commuter trains.

In 2008, a series of ten coordinated attacks by armed terrorists for three days resulted in 173 deaths, 308 injuries,
and severe damage to several heritage landmarks and prestigious hotels.

Mumbai is the commercial capital of India and has evolved into a global financial hub.
From being an ancient fishing community and a colonial centre of trade, Mumbai has become South Asia's largest
city and home of the world's most prolific film industry.

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3.32.3 INTRODUCTION
The city of Mumbai is one of the largest metropolitan cities of the world, with an immense population density, one
that is constantly growing. Apart from being the financial capital of India, with its vibrant nature, its strength lies in
the socio- economic heritage, which is shared by all its citizens.

Ever since the original seven islands of Mumbai city started to merge together, 17th century onwards, the city
has grown to transform into one of the most busy and most important city for trading in India.

Mumbai was originally built, as Bombay, by the British Empire, explicitly for the purpose of maintaining the
ongoing trade links with India, never expecting it to become a large sized harbor city. Therefore, Mumbai as it is
today, was an unplanned city, and came into being sporadically as every step of the growth was largely
impulsive and incremental, and expressed in its form that the idea of the city was derived as a field of human
creativity.

Every phase of Mumbai City's growth reflects the needs and way of life of every individual who lived there, both
physically and mentally.The population of Mumbai, as per census 2011 was a total of 18.4 million and currently,
in 2016 is 20.5 million, approximately.

The city comprises of an area of about 438 sq.km. as per Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai limits.

1853 1875 1905 1911 1926 2008 2014 2014

TRAINS TRAMS CARS TAXIS BUSES SKYWALKS METRO MONORAIL

For years now, the railway network of the city has been earn with the title of 'lifeline of Mumbai', which runs all
the way from Churchgate to Virar (W.R.), Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus to Thane (C.R.) and Chatrapati Shivaji
Terminus to Vashi (H.R.), which aid in linking the whole of Mumbai together, giving faster transportation and
easier connections.

The coastal length measuring 140 kilometers connects the mainland, which is on the west coast of India, across
the Thane creek by means of ferry service.

The Western Express Highway, the Eastern Express Highway and the Eastern Freeway are the three main
routes for road connectivity within the city, bifurcating into a smaller hierarchy of roads as per destinations within
the extents of the city.

3.32.4 TRANSPORTATION IN MUMBAI

GROWTH OF TRAINS –
The history of railway transportation in India dates back to the mid-nineteenth century. Railways have
always played a pivotal role in the city of Mumbai. Originally for the city of Bombay. The very first train
made its run in 1853, under the Great Indian Peninsular Railway, from Colaba to Thane and covered a
length of 21 miles.

When the concept of travel by train came into being, the idea held was that it should be ensured that the
primary purpose was to undertake long haul trips alone.

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In accordance with this the trains had been serving the city within this
realm ever since their origin, but the population growth in Mumbai,
caused especially because of the resolute aspect of migration,
particularly with different people who live along different locations
within the linear orientation of the city, caused the beginning of the
suburban railway service.

Basically, in brief, this is a testimonial to the fact, that in Mumbai,

'supply preceded demand and when the same process was underway.
the city's structure was simultaneously was generated. In Mumbai, the
mass transportation system is descriptively linear. Its operation is
within a lengthy corridor with high density demand, as an even sprawl
with low density is not helping sustain it.

The railway network and the roadway network were both improperly
linked to each other. Currently Railway, they carry a total of over 7000
passengers per 12 car rake, despite the design capacity being only
2400.

Mumbai basically has three independent systems of rail network, which are, namely, western line, central line and
harbor line, which are spread across the whole of Mumbai and suburbs. Factors like efficiency, mass movement,
economical means and transport of people as well as goods are the key features of rail network of Mumbai. One
cannot denote too many times that indeed, it is the lifeline of Mumbai.

GROWTH OF TRAMS –
In the year 1874, the Bombay Tramway Company Ltd. was started
with horse drawn trams that ran from Colaba to Paydhuni from and
Bori Bandar to Paydhuni. In the year 1907, the city received its first
electricity powered tram car.

By 1910, there weren't enough trams to handle the rush hour traffic
that the service encountered during regular business hours. Therefore,
double decker trams were introduced in 1920 in order to
accommodate such a heavy traffic load.

Travelers' demands were satisfied by the trams up until the city's train network was improved; as a result, the
service had to be discontinued on March 31, 1964.

GROWTH OF CARS AND TAXIS –

Mumbai is a city that has grown naturally; its streets originated during
the time of
horse-drawn carriages. Its design was not intended to accommodate
the rapid growth that ensued after the invention of automobiles. Being
the nation's financial center implied that an important portion of
citizens could surely buy such vehicles.

The wealthy preferred to travel in greater luxury in cars rather than on

public transportation like trams while cars were operating on the
streets.

Thus it was that taxis came in to the scenario. The city also possesses a large volume of floating population which
contributed to a higher demand for taxis.

Later, when the 1980s rolled along, there was the launch of 'common man car'- 'Maruti' and vehicle ownership
increased. Today, we have an approximate number of 12.94 lakh cars and as many as 250 new cars are
registered every day. There are about 43000 taxis in Mumbai. With a variety of other options, such as auto
rickshaws, taxis, Ola, Uber, etc. the prevalent trends suggest that commoners tend to prefer travelling by these
means, as opposed to overcrowded trains and traffic ridden buses.

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GROWTH OF BUSES –
Buses were initially introduced as omnibuses in the year 1926 and the
first route travelled was from Sir Arthur Crawford market (now known
as Jyotiba Phule Market) to Afghan Church.

This public transport proved to be an assent in linking the rail head to

the work center. In the year 1932, the Bombay Electrical Supply and
Tramway Company owned a total of 251 tram cars and 60 omnibuses.
Presently, there are over 9000 buses which are registered.

The service aided in transportation of about 6 lakh passengers in that

year and then as many as 38 lakhs in the next. Later, due to rising
popularity and usage, it extended services till the northern parts of the
city as well in the year 1934.

In 1940, bus transport was again revitalized by introducing double

decker buses. Today, the routes of BEST buses are spread to the
farthest extents of the city such as till Navi Mumbai, Thane and

Bhayandar, that too with regular frequencies and multiple routes. It acts as an effective supplement to the
suburban railway network which is the mass carrier in Mumbai region. It is due to this that BEST tends to
prioritize feeder routes over the other.

GROWTH OF SKYWALKS –
The concept of skywalks evolved as a medium to connect railways
stations in Mumbai, or any other such commercial areas which are
densely populated and attract a high concentration of people, with
various other heavily targeted destinations.

With the situation of overcrowding on streets intensified by the

presence of street hawkers and peddlers, along with parked vehicles,
legally or otherwise, commute for pedestrians was growing
incrementally hazardous.

Therefore, skywalks began to be proposed and planned in many such

areas within the city. The intent of building these skywalks is based in
their ability of efficiently dispersing commuters directly from areas with
congestion to other strategic locations, like bus stations, or taxi stands,
shopping areas, etc. and vice versa.

This is due to the fact that while the intent reflected effective solutions,
only a few have been located strategically and planned ideally, in
locales where commuters genuinely found it difficult to traverse the
streets. For instance, the skywalk at Bandra Railway Station.

At other junctures, people found it more convenient and preferred to use the streets instead of the built skywalks.
Another issue faced that demotivated the usage of skywalks, was the locations of entrance and exit points of the
skywalk, which were planned a little ahead of the important junction in some places.

GROWTH OF METRO –
Realising the burden of the situation on the presently prevailing systems of traffic and transportation in Mumbai,
The Government of Maharashtra, through the MMRDA, began to explore the viability of several alternative mass
transit systems, which would cater to future travelling needs of the citizens, in the next 2- 3 decades ahead. It is
recognized that the systems proposed for the future must prove to be efficient economically viable and
environment friendly.

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Therefore, after due research, analysis and executed in its first phase,
as a rapid transit system which, over time, would serve the entire city
of Mumbai. It will be built in a total of three phases over a 15-year
period, and its overall completion is expected in by the year 2021.

Mumbai Metro consideration, Mumbai Metro was planned and When

completed, the core system would span a total length of 63 km. Line 1
of the Mumbai Metro is currently operated from Versova to Ghatkopar
and covers a total distance of 11.4 kilometers. The rail line is fully
elevated, and comprises of 12 stations.

Line 2 comprises of further two parts 2A and 28 corridor. 2A will be

18.5 km in length and will have 16 stations from Anand Nagar to D.N.
Nagar. And 28 will be from D.N. Nagar to Mankhurd and will have 22
stations.

Metro Line 3 has been proposed to run from Colaba to Seepz. The 33.5-km long line will be the first
underground metro line in the city. Line 3 will serve as a connection medium between the business district in the
south to the north-central city with 26 underground and one at-grade station.

GROWTH OF MONORAIL –
As stated by the MMRDA, the operating bus service
in the city plied the regions which are crowded along
with narrow areas and lanes at immensely slow
speeds, thereby offering not many benefits to all the
commuters, and simultaneously contributing to the
plaguing issue of traffic congestion.

The Mumbai monorail, therefore, was built, in order

to be a part of a major extension of public means of
transport in Mumbai. The project was subsequently
implemented by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region
Development Authority (MMRDA), along with a
consortium of the renowned Mumbai-based
conglomerate L&T, that is, Larsen and Toubro as
well as the Malaysian infrastructure firm Scomi
Engineering Bhd.

The construction of the monorail line began in the

year 2009 with its first operational line, running
between Wadala depot and Chembur, opened to the
public on 2 February 2014.

indianexpress.com

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3.32.5 MUMBAI SUBARBAN RAILWAY INTRODUCTION

OVERVIEW OF THE EXISTING MUMBAI SUBURBAN RAILWAY –

• The Suburban Railway System in Mumbai is the most complex, densely loaded and intensively utilized
system in the world.
• It has the highest passenger density in the world – More than 8 million commuters travel everyday.
• Two zonal Railways, Western Railway (WR) and Central Railway (CR), operate the Mumbai Suburban
Railway System.

• It is spread over an expanse of around 400 route kms.

• The suburban services are run by Electric Multiple Units (EMUs)
• 274 rakes (train sets) of 12-car & 15-car composition are utilized to run more than 3000 train services.
• It is operated on 25 KV AC power supply from overhead catenary.

MUMBAI SUBURBAN RAILWAY

OWNER : Indian Railways KNOW YOUR SUBURBAN SYSTEM -

TRANSIT TYPE : Suburban Rail
Mumbai Suburban Section of Western Railway has
NUMBER OF 150 been playing the most crucial role of moving millions in
STATIONS : the Metropolitan regions.
Western: 39
Central: 51 Western Railway suburban trains cover almost the
Harbour: 32 distance up to moon in one week. The suburban section
Trans-Harbour: 6 of Western Railway in Mumbai extends from
Panvel–Diva–Vasai: 10 Churchgate, the city's business centre to Dahanu Road
Nerul–Uran (Port): 9 covering a distance of 123 Kms. and 36 stations.
Panvel–Karjat: 3
The first electric train on this section was introduced in
1928 between Colaba and Andheri, since then the
DAILY RIDERSHIP: 61.95 Lakh (2022-23) network has been extensively widened with 1305
services running and carrying about 35 lakh commuters
HEADQUARTERS : CSMT(CR) every day almost round the clock.
Churchgate (WR)
The passenger density on Western Railway is 60,000
OPERATOR : CENTRAL RAILWAYS : passengers per km per day which is highest among all
the leading Metro Railways of the world
Central line
Harbour line
Trans-Harbour line
Port (Nerul–Uran) line
Panvel–Karjat line
Panvel–Diva–Vasai line

WESTERN RAILWAYS :
Western line

TRAIN LENGTH : 12 or 15 coaches

SYSTEM LENGTH : 427.5 kilometres
(265.6 mi)

TRACK GAUGE : 1,676 (5 ft 6 in)

AVERAGE SPEED: 30 km/h (19 mph)

TOP SPEED : 110 km/h (68 mph)

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3.32.6 MUMBAI SUBARBAN RAILWAY NETWORK

Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (MRIDC or MAHARAIL) is aimed to provide a
boost to the Mumbai Suburban Railway system is operated by Indian Railways two zonal divisions Western
Railways (WR) and Central Railways (CR).

The fast commuter rail corridors on Central Railway as well as Western Railway are shared with long-distance and
freight trains, while inner suburban services operate on exclusive parallel tracks.

• Western Line
• Central Line
• Harbour Line
• Trans-Harbour Line
• Vasai–Roha Line
• Port (Nerul–Uran) line

WESTERN LINE :

The Western Line follows the Western Railway northwards from Churchgate parallel to the west coast. Local
services by electric multiple units (EMUs) ply between Churchgate and Dahanu Road (124 km (77 mi)) on
exclusive parallel tracks up to Virar (60 km (37 mi)) while MEMUs service the section beyond Virar to Dahanu
Road (64 km (40 mi)).

On 16 April 2013 EMU has extended up to Dahanu Road. MEMUs also operate between Dahanu Road
and Panvel via a branch line from Diva Junction–Vasai Road.

There are EMU carsheds at Mumbai Central, Kandivali and Virar. The largest EMU car shed in Asia is located at
Virar. A repair shop for EMUs is situated at Mahalaxmi.

EMUs are 12 car or 15 car formations and are differentiated as slow and fast locals. Slow trains halt at all stations,
while fast ones halt at Mumbai Central, Dadar, Bandra, Andheri, Borivali, Bhayandar, Vasai
Road and Virar stations which are preferable over longer distances.

CENTRAL LINE :

The Central Line in Mumbai consists of three major corridors.

Two corridors (one local and the other through) of the Central Railway run from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Terminus (CSMT) to Kalyan Junction (53 km (33 mi)), where it bifurcates into two lines – one to Kasara (67 km
(42 mi)) in the north-east and the other to Khopoli (61 km (38 mi)) in the south-east.

These two corridors constitute the 'Main' Central Line. There is also a 36 km (22 mi) corridor
between Kurla and Kalyan Junction stations for exclusive use by outstation and cargo trains.

The Central Line has two interchange stations with the Western Line, at Parel and Dadar and the Harbour line
at Sandhurst Road and Kurla.

The major car sheds on this line are at Kurla and Kalwa. There are both fast and slow locals. Slow locals halt at
every station, while fast locals' halts vary
between Byculla, Dadar, Kurla, Ghatkopar, Vikhroli, Bhandup, Mulund, Thane, Diva Junction, Dombivli and Kalyan
Junction.

All trains traveling beyond Kalyan run as slow trains and stop at every station.

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HARBOUR LINE :

The Harbour Line is part of the Central Railway, and runs from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)
to Goregaon and Panvel. All Harbour Line services operate as slow services.

The line operates from two separate platforms at CSMT and the tracks cross over the mainline at Sandhurst
Road to head towards stations along Mumbai's Eastern dock area. A branch line from Wadala Road joins the
Western Line at Mahim Junction and continues towards Goregaon.

Further construction is ongoing to extend the Western Line branch to Borivali.

The Harbour Line has an interchange station with the mainline at Kurla, where it turns east towards Navi Mumbai.

The Harbour Line further bifurcates at Vashi into two lines – one rejoins the main lines at Thane, while the other
continues to Panvel.

The shed for these trains is in Sanpada. A partial section of the Harbour Line is elevated from Sandhurst
Road to Cotton Green.

TRANS-HARBOUR LINE :

The Trans-Harbour Line which is another part of Central Railway connects Navi Mumbai and Thane.

It operates from two separate platforms at Thane to Nerul, where it joins the Harbour line till Panvel and a small
branch line from Turbhe goes to Vashi as it runs parallel with the Harbour line.

All services on the trans-harbour line are all-stop services. Freight trains share the tracks through a bypass
from Airoli to Kopar Khairane, after which it goes to a siding in Turbhe for the APMC market godowns.

VASAI ROAD-ROHA LINE :

The Vasai Road–Roha line is an Intersection chord rail bypass line of the Mumbai Suburban Railway which
connects the Western line, Central line and Harbor line of the Western Railway zone and Central Railway zone.

It runs from Vasai Road to Roha which also connects Panvel and the Konkan Railway.

Currently this line is used for bypassing freight trains, Express and MEMU Passenger trains. And also construction
of a separate Suburban Corridor on this route for more connectivity by the MRVC is going.

PORT (NERUL-URAN) LINE :

The Nerul–Uran line, also known as the Port line, is another part of the Central Railway connects Navi
Mumbai to Uran, which is also in Navi Mumbai, but at its southwestern part.

It also operates from the two separate platforms of Nerul and one separate platform of CBD Belapur to Uran, also
making connectivity to JNPT in Navi Mumbai directly.

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3.32.7 SITUATION TODAY

When confronted with the absence of any good, convenient as well as efficient system of public transport, the
trends have always indicated higher leaning towards private vehicle ownership. Not only is that polluting and more
energy intensive, it also proves to be more expensive to the economy. This leads to additional consumption of
fuels and oil as well as vehicular emission.

In the current scenario, the suburban trains are so immensely overloaded and burdened that they have even been
included as record holders for the world's most crowded. Simultaneously, bus transportation, primarily due to the
condition of our roadways are now looked upon more as agents of congestion instead of aiding public transport.

Also, the authorities concerned have derived that road conditions can be improved upon by means of road
widening, which has proved responsible for cutting down footpaths in those regions which observe heavy
pedestrian activities. It should be realized that the city comprises of a high amount of pedestrian activity, and
therefore, the same should be treated not as a sidelined aspect but as an integral part belonging to the
transportation process

3.32.8 THE PROBLEM

UNCONTROLLED AND INDISCRIMINATE USE OF PRIVATE CAR:

Barring long distance commuters, distances between districts within Mumbai are essentially quite small and given
the 'right walking environment', can be traversed easily. Unfortunately, an environment of this kind is not available
within Mumbai causing people to forget about walking as well. Therefore, people now generally prefer to either
take their private cars or opt for other available options like taxis and rickshaws as their mode of transport.

HEAVY PARKING DEMAND:

A majority of all the parking spaces in Mumbai is generally on the

streets and is disorganized as well as illegal parking. This further
reduces the effective width of the roads to quite a large extent.

With the plaguing absence of any usable footpaths, pedestrians are

now also forced to weave between the many parked vehicles. Also,
vehicles are found to double and triple parked, showing no
consideration to any other road users.

NOMINAL PARKING FEE:

Ever since the 1970s, a nominal amount has been charged for
parking fees, and the same has seen very little increment over the
years.
Moreover, they are applicable uniformly across the entire city,
regardless of whether it is a high density commercial area or a slum.
A BREAKDOWN OF ENCROACHMENT:

Another issue remains in breakdown of encroachment and the consequent lack of discipline on roads.
Often, it has been so that an entire traffic stream has been observed to ignore a flashing red light and
thereby the succeeding arm has been affected as it too has lost its right of way, and yet, the policeman on
point duty has found to have not done anything about it.

This simply leads to the aggravation of a per-existing improper situation as some other streams are then left
waiting unless it is that another arm does not empty itself.

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OVERCROWDED STATIONS:

Due to the fact that the railway line plays a pivotal role in the
transportation system for the city, it is noted that at most times during
the day. and especially so during peak hours, the stations to be
overcrowded, and the facilities overburdened by the percentage of
population occupying them, with the
MOST BUSY STATIONS IN THE MUMBAI SUBURBAN NETWORK
BEING:

THANE- With an average of 1000 trains per day and a footfall of 6.54
lakh passengers travelling per day. Thane has emerged as the
busiest railway station, not only in the Central Railway line but also all
over Mumbai.

CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI TERMINUS (CST)- Being the headquarter of Central

Railways, along with its historic significance, CST records a footfall of
6.36 lakh passengers per day making it the 2nd most busy station in
Mumbai.

ANDHERI- With an average of 6.04 lakh passengers per day, Andheri station remains the busiest station in the
Western line and the 3rd busiest in Mumbai. It is estimated that the footfall is consistently rising, especially after
the Metro railways have come into operation.

DADAR- Connecting the Central and Western lines of the Mumbai suburban railway, this station receives an
average of 5.77 lakh passengers per day.

CHURCHGATE- Being the southernmost station of Mumbai, it attracts the working class from all parts of the city. An
average of 5.05 lakh passengers travelling per day, makes Churchgate the 5th busiest station in Mumbai.

BANDRA- Serving the planned commercial complex rightly named as 'Bandra Kurla Complex', this station records
an average of 4.91 lakh passengers per day making it the 6th busiest station in Mumbai.

VIRAR- It is the only station that connects Mumbai to northern stations like Dahanu and cities of Gujarat like Vapi,
and it records an average of 3.95 lakh passengers daily.

KURLA- It is known to be one of the oldest stations in Mumbai and having a total of 8 operational platforms which
record an average of 3.81 lakh passengers on a daily basis. It connects the Harbour and Central line of the
railway making it a very busy station. Kurla displays an urban blend of residential colonies, big and small,
industrial complexes and is also home to one of the biggest slums in the city.

KALYAN- A major railway junction on the Central line of the Mumbai suburban railway. Kalyan has recorded a
footfall of 3.60 commuters per day. It is also a station where mail and express trains halt, making it a very
crowded station.

NALLASOPARA - This station, located on the western railway line of Mumbai, is a very busy station, recording an
average of 3.25 lakh passengers per day. The property rates here were later observed to be rising steeply due to
its connectivity with the City.

3.32.9 POOR STATION FACILITIES

• The journeys which occur during the peak hours which are mainly based on the regular working hours are
hence unimaginably crowded.

• The average capacity which a 9 car train can hold is 1980. However, due to the number of people travelling
a total of up to 4365 people conventionally occupy it during the peak hours, which is more than twice the
capacity of the train.

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• Many casualties are recorded, as people suffer from accidents, such as falling off trains, during these peak
hours.

• The station buildings catering to the major stations have been finding it increasingly difficult lately to cope with
the ever increasing number of daily commuters.

• The rail bridges have been found to be narrow and few in number to help commuters while entering and
exiting the platforms.

• The foot-over bridges also are not wide enough and are observed to open into areas which are intruded upon
by informal vendors, which ultimately leave little room for safe and convenient pedestrian movement.

• More deaths have been reported near the station areas since many commuters have been run over by trains
when they cross the tracks while choosing to avoid these crowded foot-over bridges and subways to reach
their platforms.

• A total of about 20,700 deaths had been reported during 2003-2007.

• The station areas immediately outside the station building have been noted to be experiencing acute problems
regarding congestion owing to poor intermodal connections.

• Most of these stations seem to have no space for dedicated bus stations.

• Buses also have to share the narrow roads with cabs and rickshaws.

• These station areas do not have public sidewalks and even the ones present are too narrow and inaccessible
as they are usually occupied by hawkers.

• The areas also seem to have mostly dilapidated built environments which are in the surrounding spaces and
since most of them are old, their ownership rights are sketchy and therefore, to bring them into the intrinsic fold
of the precinct and rehabilitate people and businesses is a challenge.

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3.33 RAILWAY ARCHITECTURE :

3.33.1 RAILWAY STATION AND ITS PURPOSE :

A station where people embark and exit from trains and/or load and unload freight (or products) conveyed by rail is
known as a railroad station, train station, railroad station, or station yard. Some refer to a station that primarily deals
with passenger services as a passenger station, while others refer to a station that deals exclusively or mostly with
goods (freight) as a goods station or freight station. One or more of the following uses exist for railway stations :

• To entrain or detrain the passengers.

• To load or off load the goods of parcels.
• To control the movement of train.To enable the trains to cross each other in case of single line section.
• To enable the faster trains to overtake the slower trains.
• To enable the locomotives to take fuel or water.
• To attach or detach coaches or wagons to the trains.
• To collect food and water for the passengers.
• To provide facilities for change of engines and crew/staff.
• To enable sorting out of wagons and bogies to from new trains.
• To provide facilities and hold the passengers in case of emergencies like indefinite delay, break down and accidents
etc., when traffic disrupted.

CATEGORIES OF STATIONS FOR PROVISION OF PASSENGER AMENITIES :

• Category 'A': Non-suburban stations with an annual passenger earnings of Rs.6 crores and above.

• Category 'B’ :
1. Non-suburban stations with an annual passenger earnings between Rs.3 crores to Rs.6 Crores.

2. Stations of Tourist importance, or an important junction station (to be decided by G.M.).

• Category 'C': All Suburban Stations.

• Category 'D': Non-suburban station with passenger earnings between 1 and 3 Crores.

• Category 'E': Non-suburban stations with earnings less than 1 crores.

• Category 'F': Halts

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3.33.2 MINIMUM ESSENTIAL AMENITIES AT EACH CATEGORY OF STATIONS.

Source : INDIAN RAILWAY WORKS MANUAL 2000.

ANNEXURE-4.2
Para 403

(i) Regular/flag stations should be electrified if electricity is available within one Km.
(ii) If electricity is not available within one Km. and trains stop at night, electricity through solar power be
considered.

* Where trains stop at night these are to be provided at electrified stations.

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3.33.3 SCALE OF MINIMUM ESSENTIAL AMENITIES AT STATIONS :

Source : INDIAN RAILWAY WORKS MANUAL 2000.

ANNEXURE-4.2
Para 403

Note: Scale of all the amenities prescribed above are the bare minimum to be provided at the appropriate class of
stations. Amenities over and above the prescribed minimum scales will continue to be provided as per stipulated norms,
details in Annexure 4.4

RECOMMENDED AND DESIRABLE AMENITIES :

Once the station fulfils the requirement of the minimum essential amenities, further augmentation of the premises can
be done on the basis of norms specified for recommended level of amenities.
For better improvement of customer satisfaction level and interface process at station, the provision of spaces
shouldfurther confirm the norms mentioned in the manual for desirable amenities given in the tables extracted from
Indian Railway Works Manual 2000, Annexure 4.4 & 4.5 para 404 and 405.

RECOMMENDED AMENITITES :

Nmax = Average no. of passengers at any time during peak including the inward and outward passengers (excluding mela
traffic).

Ndb = Design figure for number of passengers for 'A' & 'B' stations to be calculated as Ndb = 0.3 (Nmax ).

Nds = Design figure for number of passengers for 'C', 'D' and 'E' stations to be calculated as Nds = 0.45 (Nmax ).

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3.33.4 NORMS FOR PROVISION OF PASSENGERS AMENITIES AT THE

RECOMMENDED LEVEL :

Source : INDIAN RAILWAY WORKS MANUAL 2000.

ANNEXURE-4.2
Para 403

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3.33.5 DESIRABLE AMENITIES :

Source : INDIAN RAILWAY WORKS MANUAL 2000.

Washable aprons may be provided in a planned manner to cover only stations from where trains terminate/originate or
stop for longer duration in the morning hours.

The amenities for specific category of railway station in our country can thus be decided by following the norms and
guidelines of Indian Railway Works manual 2000, which is revised after a span of every five years.

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3.33.6 FUNCTIONAL STANDARD OF FOUR MAIN AREAS IN RAILWAY

STATION :

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4. DATA COLLECTION

MAXIMUM MOVING DIMENSIONS (1676mm Gauge )

CROSS SECTION OF BROAD GAUGE TRACK FOR SINGLE LINE (1676mm Gauge )
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TRACK DRAINAGE SYSTEMS :

Source : kpstructures.in
DRAINAGE OF PLATFORM

TYPICAL CROSS SECTION OF SIDE DRAIN Source : kpstructures.in

OPEN DRAIN BETWEEN TRACKS ( All dim. In mm ) Source : kpstructures.in

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PLATFORM COVERS : Depending on the climate conditions, number of passengers and nature of traffic, platform
covers should be provided as per scale. In normal operating conditions the platform and other areas are designed
to accommodate 1.5 to 2.5 persons per sqm. Under emergency conditions, it is assumed that a full trainload is
required to disembark.

Source : Satyalaxmi Naidu

Height of platform: Height above rail level for high passenger platforms
I. 840 mm maximum
II. 760 mm minimum

Foot Over Bridges : FOB should be preferably 20 feet wide at NSG 1 to 3 and SG-1 category stations wherever
feasible.

SPACE REQUIRED BY PASSENGERS

SEATING ( 1.8 x 0.9 x 0.9 M )

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Subway :
i. The height of subway should be at least
2.75m and minimum width of subway to be
4m’
ii. Provision of adequate lighting and drainage
system and also ensures security and safety
for Subway. Power supply to subway should
2.75
be made available from the feeder cable of
traction line (OHE) or other means of
uninterrupted power source of electric
supply.
Tactile path (guiding and warning) from the platform may seamlessly lead to Subways (NSG1 to 2 & SG1 category
stations).

Lifts :

i. The minimum size of the lift shall be 1500

mm x 1500mm which allows easy
maneuverability of Wheel Chair users with a
clear door opening of minimum 900mm to
be provided.

ii. The call button located outside of the lift

may have a clear floor space of minimum
900 mm x 1200 mm with no obstruction so
as to enable a Wheel Chair user to easily
reach the call button and it shall be installed
at a height between 800 mm and 1000 mm. ELEVATOR FOR ORDINARY AND WHEELCHAIR USE

iii. The control panel inside the lift shall be

placed at a height between 800mm to
1000mm, for Wheel Chair users. It shall have
buttons with Braille / raised letters.

Staircase
• Width of stair 3.0 M , Minimum width : 1.8 M
• Height of riser : 150 mm (maximum)
• Length of tread : 300 mm (minimum)
• Movement of passengers : 2 lanes
• Vertical Clearance 2700 mm (min.)
• Handrail 850 mm high, 50 mm dia

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TACTILE PAVERS : (GUIDING & WARNING BLOCKS)

Source : Indian Railway Construction Manual

I. Two rows of tactile warning tiles should be installed across the entire width.
II. Also, there should be clear headroom of at least 2.1m height above the tactile guidance blocks, free of protruding
objects such as overhanging tree branches and signage, along the entire length of the walk.

• Overall Dimensions - 1125mm x 530mm x

100mm thickness.
• Reinforced with 8mm dia tor steell @ 150mm
c/c both ways
• Manufactured with M-30 grade concrete by vibro compaction process
using jointless FRP/GRP/Steel Moulds as to achieve shuttering finish on 5
faces

Ramps :
Ramps shall only be used for small changes in level or for use by wheelchairs
• And the following gradients shall apply: a) preferred gradient 1:20 b) maximum gradient 1:12
• Ramps shall be a minimum width of 1200mm for unidirectional movement.
• 1500 mm for bi-directional movement.

Source : Dimensions.com

UNIVERSAL COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE UMANG DARJI I 1

 REJUVENATING RAILWAY STATION

ESCALATOR :

Source : Dimensions.com

Source : Archtoolbox

ESCALATOR FOR ORDINARY & WHEELCHAIR USE

PARKING STANDARD DIMENSION

Source : Dimensions.com Source : Dimensions.com

UNIVERSAL COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE UMANG DARJI I 1