Egmore Railway Station Redevelopment: Wheelchair Users Face Accessibility Challenges

Chennai Egmore railway station redevelopment work continues to create accessibility challenges for wheelchair users, with several platforms lacking convenient lift and ramp facilities. While Southern Railway has sought time to complete the ongoing infrastructure work, passengers are raising concerns over the absence of adequate interim arrangements.

Wheelchair user Sathish highlighted the difficulties faced by passengers with mobility challenges at the station. According to him, Platform 11A, which provides connectivity towards the Metro station, currently does not have a lift, ramp or suitable facility for wheelchair users to cross the tracks.

Wheelchair Accessibility Gaps at Egmore Station

A foot overbridge (FOB) on the Beach station side has a functioning lift and ramp, but these facilities currently provide access only up to Platform 11A.

Another foot overbridge serving Platforms 1 to 4 has a lift and ramp on one side. However, the opposite end of the bridge does not have similar accessibility facilities, creating difficulties for wheelchair users.

The situation is particularly challenging on Platforms 5, 6 and 7, where several long-distance and outstation trains operate. Although an escalator is available, there is no lift for wheelchair users.

As a result, wheelchair users may have to travel to the far end of the platform and use a track-crossing route, highlighting the accessibility concerns during the ongoing Egmore railway station redevelopment.

New Foot Overbridge Still Under Construction

A third foot overbridge is being constructed with the aim of connecting the platforms and addressing some of the existing accessibility gaps.

When asked about interim arrangements during the construction period, a railway official said the new FOB would be connected to the Poonamallee High Road Multi-Level Car Parking. This route is expected to provide passengers with an alternative connection while the work is completed.

However, wheelchair users say that navigating the current detours without adequate accessibility measures remains difficult.

Wheelchair Users Seek Temporary Solution

Passengers with mobility challenges have called for temporary measures until the new FOB becomes operational.

“How are we supposed to travel until the completion of the FOB? They could at least introduce a battery-operated vehicle to cover the detour many wheelchair users currently take,” Sathish said.

Wheelchair users have also expressed concerns over what they describe as insufficient accessibility arrangements at Chennai Egmore railway station during the redevelopment phase.

Southern Railway Gives November Deadline

Responding g to the concerns, Southern Railway said that the structural portion of the new parcel office and arrival FOB has been completed.

According to the railway authorities, the installation of lifts and escalators is targeted for completion by the end of November. Once commissioned, the new foot overbridge will connect with the Multi-Level Car Parking on Poonamallee High Road and will include accessibility provisions.

The completion of the new FOB and installation of lifts are expected to significantly improve wheelchair accessibility at Egmore railway station, particularly for passengers travelling between platforms.