Mangaluru (Karnataka): The redevelopment of Mangaluru Junction Railway Station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) is in its final stages, with works nearing completion at a revised project cost of ₹15.80 crore, up from the initial estimate of ₹10.58 crore, according to officials from the Palakkad Division of Southern Railway.
The extensive redevelopment is aimed at enhancing passenger amenities, accessibility, and overall infrastructure, aligning with the Indian Railways’ broader mission to modernise key stations across the country.
Major upgrades to station infrastructure
Under the project, the Mangaluru Junction station has witnessed both aesthetic and functional improvements. A new entrance arch has been constructed, and the station approach road has been widened to facilitate smoother vehicular movement. The redesigned access includes a footpath, kerb wall, and a minor bridge, ensuring better pedestrian safety and connectivity.
The station building façade has undergone a significant transformation with Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) panels, sunshade elevations, and fresh exterior painting. A new porch has also been added to the terminal building to provide better shelter for passengers.
Additionally, the roofing of the station building and crew booking office has been upgraded using Mangaluru tile-pattern ceramic tiles, which combine traditional aesthetics with modern durability. The old windows have been replaced with uPVC fittings for better insulation and maintenance efficiency.
Passenger-centric improvements
The redevelopment project has prioritised passenger convenience with the renewal of the booking office and concourse areas to streamline ticketing and circulation. The platforms have also seen extensive upgrades — including Kota stone flooring (1,450 sq m) and coping tile work (650 sq m) to ensure safer and more durable surfaces.
To improve shade and comfort for travellers, 17 new platform shelters have been installed — 10 on Platform 1 and 7 on Platform 2.
A new waiting hall has been constructed to accommodate more passengers, while a new parcel office building and an expanded crew booking office (with a developed second floor) have been added to improve operational efficiency.
Enhanced parking and utility areas
The circulating and parking areas have undergone complete redevelopment with the addition of Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) and Random Rubble (RR) retaining walls for structural stability. The redesigned parking zone offers improved vehicular capacity and pedestrian safety.
Further, comprehensive electrical, plumbing, and telecommunication upgrades were executed across the parcel office, waiting hall, concourse, booking office, and façade to support the station’s upgraded infrastructure. The tile work on both stairways of the Foot Over Bridge (FOB) has also been completed, enhancing accessibility between platforms.
Final phase and completion timeline
According to the Palakkad Division, only minor finishing works remain, and these are expected to be completed in the coming weeks. Once finalised, the Mangaluru Junction station will showcase modernised passenger facilities while retaining its regional architectural character.
The station’s revamped layout and enhanced amenities are expected to improve commuter experience, support better traffic flow, and align with Indian Railways’ vision of developing world-class railway infrastructure under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.