Title - Skywalk from bus stand, hi-tech add-ons for state railway stations

Kochi: It all sounds very fancy and hi-tech. The proposed modernisation plan of the Thiruvananthapuram railway station includes innovative add-ons like Wi Max-enabling; a Skywalk connecting the KSRTC bus stand to the railway station; a wider circulating area before the station so as to ensure proper entry and exit and parking space; separate entry and exit lanes for VIP vehicles and an air-conditioned executive lounge of international standards.

A railway official told DC, “The proposed station modernization plans are ready. These will be finalised in the second pre-bid meeting to be attended by architects’ forum members on Jan. 9. We intend to give priority to the Central railway station before taking up Ernakulam station works.”

Earlier, a similar meet was held on Dec. 17, in which most of the plans were passed. Other plan-ned facilities are: a toilet block at Pettah end; widening of the existing cloak room by converting the present generator room; and a foot overbridge at Nagercoil end.

Waiting benches and platform shelters on all platforms would also be constructed.