The Indian Railways has decided to upgrade and rejuvenate the Thane railway station to commemorate the historic first passenger train that ran between Bori Bunder and Thane in 1853.
The station would get a complete heritage makeover. The redevelopment plan includes upgrading the railway platforms, improving passenger facilities, and modifying the station. The union budget for the financial year (FY) 2023 has an initial allotment of Rs 1,000 crore for the project, including foot over bridges. According to an official of Central Railways (CR), further allocations would be provided after the detailed project report (DPR) is submitted. The CR is likely to prepare a project design. Ashwini Vaishnaw, the union railway minister, told the media that Thane holds particular significance for the Indian Railways because of its history. Vaishnaw said that the Indian Railways also planned Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus's (CSMT) redevelopment work through the public-private partnership (PPP) model. The redevelopment plan comprises the construction of commercial areas, alongwith cafes and restaurants with parking spaces for passengers inside the terminus. The Central Railways also took over the up-gradation and restoration work of the Byculla railway station. The heritage building of Byculla railway station comprises historical architecture, which is present at the entrance of the railway station. The architecture, along with stained glass windows, grills, walls, present on the inside and outside of the station premises were restored by the zonal railway as well. Image Source
