Here's The Plan To Redevelop Mumbai's Iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus: Details inside

Central Railway (CR) is working diligently to clean the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) building before February 3, marking the historic date in 1925 when the first train ran on the electrified section between Bombay Victoria Terminus and Kurla. A portion of the Rs 2.50-crore cleaning project is nearing completion, according to a Hindustan Times (HT) report.

The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA), responsible for redeveloping this UNESCO World Heritage site, was initially tasked with the building's maintenance. However, with progress slow, CR authorities stepped in to ensure the work continued. Officials stated that the redevelopment project's total cost could rise to Rs 2,700 crore, up from the original Rs 2,450 crore, with additional funds being sought in the upcoming budget.

Cleaning The Victorian Gothic Landmark

CR began cleaning the grand Victorian Gothic structure in December 2023, covering it with green cloth and scaffolding from the clock tower to the main entrance. This cleaning addresses air pollution that has darkened the building's sandstone and limestone walls.

"We undertook basic cleaning as part of the structure's maintenance," a senior CR official explained in the HT report. "Water was used to clean the external walls facing the courtyard, and the project is being completed in two phases."

Currently, work is focused on cleaning the roof over Platforms 1 to 3 near the Star Chamber. Recently, white and gold hues were added to beams on the transparent roof as part of the maintenance.

However, some experts have raised concerns about frequent cleaning, even if only water is used, fearing it may lead to discoloration. "Cleaning should be based on scientific methods and focus on soiled areas," one expert said in the same report. "Frequent scaffolding and abrasive polishing may harm the structure."

Progress On CSMT Redevelopment

The CSMT redevelopment, led by RLDA and executed by Ahluwalia Contracts Limited, has seen around 10-12% of the work completed. The original Rs 2,450-crore project cost has risen by Rs 250 crore due to revised estimates.

Current efforts include constructing a new building to house the staff from Central Railway's DRM office. Another building with multi-level parking, office spaces, and public amenities is also underway near Wadi Bunder. The parking lot will accommodate over 700 vehicles, while the first floor will feature restaurants, shops, and a skywalk to connect commuters to the other side of the station.

Excavation for a new railway office and station premises near Platform 18, parallel to P D'Mello Road, is 95 per cent complete. The entire redevelopment project spans an area of 4,61,534 square metres, promising a modernised yet historically preserved station.