Keshmi Chevli,29

LITERATURE & LIVE CASE STUDIES OF RAILWAY STATIONS

LITERATURE CASE STUDY

Redevelopment of Rani kamalapati station

(Habibganj), Bhopal

Habibganj is the first railway station in India which is

taken up on Public-Private Partnership (PPP). It was
awarded by Indian Railway Stations Development
Corporation Limited to the Developer Bansal Pathways
Habibganj Private Limited.

The redeveloped station aims to provide large waiting

area above tracks, called concourse, where passengers
shall wait for their trains comfortably. The movement
of departing and arriving passengers is segregated, all
components are well designed so that the station is
100 per cent divyang friendly and is a delight for all
people visiting it.
The commercial spaces – retail, hotel, offices etc., are also well integrated
with the station to provide better ambience to the entire station complex.

The station's redesign includes modern facilities like spacious waiting

areas, food courts, high-quality restrooms, and well-maintained platforms.
It also includes aesthetic upgrades that blend contemporary and
traditional elements, with the use of local materials and architectural
features.

Due to various advantages in works across/near railway tracks, steel has

been used extensively in station redevelopment project. The Cover of
platforms, the concourse and roof of concourse/ new station buildings are
done in structural steel.

Type of girder: Welded steel plate girders, with composite RCC slab
Maximum length of girder: 47.16m (span 2) [36.56 +10.60 (cantilever)]
Depth of Steel girder: 1750 mm
Maximum length of individual piece: 12.5m
Maximum weight of individual Steel piece: 10.95T
Maximum weight of single girder in span length: 35.42T (Span-2, with
Cantilever)
Maximum weight of assembled span: 382.612T (14 girders with bracings
etc.)
Habibganj railway station redevelopment project is a unique project, taken up for the first
time in India and lots of challenges were there which required fresh thinking. Experienced
railway engineers were initially apprehensive about such a project coming up in a busy
working station. The Developer, the designers, the execution agencies are to be saluted for
coming up with good solutions and executing the work safely/smoothly without adversely
affecting railway operations.

Baldev Singh
Chief General Manager (Projects),
Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation
LITERATURE CASE STUDY

As part of the new train line construction

between Dakar and Diamniadio, GA2D was
chosen to lead the renovation and extension of
Dakar train station. This building is a historical
monument dating back to 1914.
Retaining heritage elements (such as local art or design motifs) while introducing modern
materials and infrastructure to enhance the aesthetic value and cultural identity of the
station. This approach can help create spaces that are rooted in the local context.

The station has been designed to prioritize passenger comfort, with spacious waiting areas,
clear signage, and accessible facilities. The layout allows for smooth flow and minimizes
congestion, ensuring a more pleasant experience for passengers.

Dakar Train Station has incorporated green spaces within the station design, enhancing
both the aesthetic and environmental aspects. Sustainable materials and natural
elements have been used to create a welcoming atmosphere.

The station is well-connected to the surrounding city, with links to buses, taxis, and other
modes of public transportation. This integration promotes smooth travel for passengers
and reduces transit time.

Cleanliness is a major focus at Dakar Train Station, with visible efforts to maintain hygiene
across all areas, including restrooms, platforms, and waiting areas.
By drawing inspiration from Dakar Train Station, key focus areas such as cultural integration, sustainability, modern technology, and
efficient connectivity can be implemented to improve the passenger experience and functionality of Indian railway stations. Adapting
these principles to Indian contexts can result in stations that are not only more efficient but also enhance passenger comfort,
environmental sustainability, and safety.
LIVE CASE STUDY

Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority is also set

to open the first few metro lines. These stations are designed by
architecture practice Studio Archohm. Mumbai metro stations
have been designed with a variety of crucial details in mind, from
vertical louvers that give a monolithic appearance to the actual
frames that provide much-needed rain and sun protection.
Why I chose metro station as a case study?
To Analyze how a well-organized navigation system at metro stations reduces confusion
and enhances the travel experience, and explore how similar systems could be adapted
for local railway stations.

To Study how space management techniques in metro stations improve passenger

movement and reduce congestion during peak hours.

Metro stations often follow strict maintenance protocols, keeping facilities clean
and operational

Metro stations often use technology for ticketing, security, and passenger information,
such as smart card systems, automated ticket vending machines, and real-time updates.
Metro stations prioritize inclusivity with ramps, elevators, tactile paving and announcements
for universal help.

Facilities like air-conditioned waiting areas, clean restrooms, vending machines, and food
courts are common in metro stations

Upgrades such as better lighting, CCTV surveillance, and clearly marked emergency exits
contribute to a safer environment.
The Mumbai Metro system has implemented a smart ventilation system that optimizes air
circulation within the station. it regulate airflow based on passenger density and external
weather conditions. these small panels ensures a comfortable environment for
commuters while minimizing energy consumption. Additionally, it helps reduce the
dependency on air conditioning, making the metro station design more sustainable and
cost-effective in the long run. This approach not only enhances passenger comfort but
also contributes to the overall environmental sustainability of the metro infrastructure.
LIVE CASE STUDY

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), formerly Victoria Terminus, was rebuilt and
completed in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. Designed by Frederick
William Stevens, the terminus was a landmark project that combined Victorian Gothic Revival
architecture with elements of traditional Indian design. The station's reconstruction was
undertaken to cater to the growing demands of Mumbai's bustling port city and its increasing
railway traffic.
Passenger Flow Management:
The design emphasized an efficient layout to manage passenger
traffic. Separate zones for platforms, ticketing, and
administrative offices were planned to avoid congestion.
Connectivity:
Located in South Mumbai, it was strategically positioned to serve
as a hub for both suburban and long-distance rail networks.

The terminus fused Victorian Gothic Revival features (like pointed

arches, ribbed vaults, and turrets) with Indian elements such as
domes and intricate carvings. This created a structure that was both
culturally resonant and globally modern.
Symmetry and Grandeur:
The station’s symmetrical facade and central dome added a sense of
grandeur, symbolizing Mumbai's importance as a trade and cultural
hub.

Durability:
Locally sourced Kurla stone and imported Italian marble
were used for strength and aesthetics.
Ornamentation:
The station features intricate carvings of flora, fauna, and
human figures that showcase Indian craftsmanship.
Congestion:
Designed for smaller populations, older stations struggle with
overcrowding.

Lack of Modern Amenities:

Limited provisions for clean restrooms, food courts, and waiting lounges.

Accessibility Issues:
Many stations lack ramps, elevators, and tactile pathways for differently-
abled individuals.

Maintenance Challenges:
Heritage structures require constant upkeep to prevent deterioration.
Stained glass and intricate carvings are prone to damage.

Inefficient Layouts:
Initial designs were not optimized for high commuter traffic, leading to
navigation difficulties.