Platform shelter extension under way

The Southern Railway has embarked on extending shelters in various platforms in Tiruchi Junction.

The work is under way in platforms 4, 5, 6 and 7 from where trains branch off in different direction with heavy passenger movement during peak hours.

The work is being executed under the passenger amenities improvement scheme at a cost of Rs. 1.1 crore. Sources said the shelters in the four platforms were being extended towards the Ponmalai end.

Steel structures on the platforms had been installed and the canopy would have galvalume roofing sheet to withstand wind pressure. The work is expected to be completed by August.

The railway administration took up the work on priority following demand from passengers who found it difficult to board trains from these platforms during rainy season in the absence of shelter in certain portions.

The four platforms have been laid in such a way to accommodate 24 coaches. Plans are afoot to carry out platform shelter extension work in the left over bays in platforms 2 and 3. However, this would be taken up once the ongoing works are completed.