The redevelopment of Virar Station under the Virar-Dahanu Road Quadrupling Project is progressing steadily, with several major infrastructure works completed and new facilities being developed to improve passenger convenience, increase operational capacity and strengthen Mumbai’s suburban rail network.
The project includes upgrades to railway infrastructure, passenger amenities and station facilities to accommodate the growing commuter demand in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Several important railway structures have already been completed as part of the redevelopment. These include the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) building, Route Relay Interlocking (RRI) Building, mid-section RRI building between Virar and Vaitarna, civil works for OC Rooms 1 and 2, two Nalha approach bridges at Platform No. 8, an overhead water tank, gang tool room and indoor substation.
These completed facilities are expected to support improved railway operations and cater to future expansion requirements.
Work on the new Virar Station Building and elevated deck above the platforms is also progressing. The elevated deck, covering nearly 8,000 square metres, has witnessed significant structural development. So far, 36 columns have been erected, 160 girders have been installed and around 2,000 square metres of deck slab work has been completed.
The third slab of the Stilt + 3 station building has also been cast, while finishing activities are underway.
To support construction of the elevated deck over Platforms 2, 3 and 4, the existing booking office serving Platforms 3 and 4 has been relocated to the new station building. A new booking office with three ticket counters on the eastern side of Virar Station has also been completed and opened for passengers.
Civil works for Platform No. 8, including the retaining wall for the engineering siding and foundations for platform covering, have been completed. Platform No. 5B has also been commissioned to accommodate 15-coach EMU trains, improving operational flexibility.
Additionally, the Foot Over Bridge between Virar and Vaitarna near Narangi Gate has been completed and opened for commuters.
As part of the redevelopment plan, Platforms 3A and 4A have been widened from 6.5 metres to 10.5 metres and extended by 60 metres. The upgraded platforms are expected to improve passenger movement and manage the increasing flow of commuters.
The redevelopment of Virar Station is expected to enhance train operations and provide better facilities for passengers travelling on the Mumbai suburban railway network.
Source: Mid-day
