Parel Station Transformation Complete: Improved Connectivity Elevated Parking, And Modern Facilities Unveiled

Parel Station has become one of the first to open after being upgraded under the ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, which was launched in 2023, according to a Midday report. The newly constructed building, which includes an elevated parking lot, a spacious booking office, and various other amenities, was opened a few weeks ago. The upgrade, costing Rs 19.41 crore, is expected to benefit over 37,000 passengers.

Dr Swapnil Nila, the Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway (CR), shared, "The station building, along with the parking lot, is now complete and open to the public. Another building is also under construction nearby."

Out of the 1309 stations selected for this scheme, 76 belong to Western Railway (WR) and 38 to Central Railway (CR). Along with Parel, two other important suburban stations, Vikhroli and Kanjurmarg, are being upgraded at costs of Rs 19.16 crore and Rs 27.01 crore, respectively.

The upgrades include visually appealing station buildings, sewage treatment plants inspired by the Swachh Bharat initiative for a cleaner environment, attractive landscaping on platforms, and enhanced passenger amenities. A senior official added that the improvements also involve better connectivity with additional lifts and escalators, modernised guidance and information systems, and the refurbishment of administrative spaces. A strong emphasis has been placed on making the stations more inclusive, with facilities that are accessible to disabled passengers.

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is a phased initiative, involving master plans for each station to improve its amenities and infrastructure.

Parel was chosen for this upgrade due to its strategic location near several key hospitals, including KEM Hospital, Tata Memorial Hospital, Wadia Hospital, and Gandhi TB Hospital. Additionally, Parel is a growing corporate hub with numerous IT industries, making it an important station for both commuters and businesses.