A significant upgrade to passenger facilities has been unveiled at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) with the inauguration of the Yatri Suvidha Kendra. Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the opening on Saturday, emphasizing its role in enhancing comfort for the expected surge in travelers during the upcoming festival season. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to accommodate up to 7,000 passengers, offering a more comfortable pre-boarding experience and smoother passenger flow. The Kendra is thoughtfully zoned into three distinct areas: a 2,860 sqm ticketing zone, a 1,150 sqm post-ticketing section, and a 1,218 sqm pre-ticketing area. This strategic layout aims to minimize congestion and elevate passenger comfort near the station’s primary entrance. Northern Railway has equipped the center with modern amenities, including 22 ticketing counters, 25 Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs), seating for 200 individuals, and 18 high-volume, low-speed fans for effective cooling. The construction involved overcoming challenges like relocating essential services and structures without disrupting ongoing operations. Additionally, an extension to Foot Over Bridge 1 (FOB 1) now provides a direct link to the Metro Station, improving connectivity and reducing platform crowding. This initiative follows a recent Union Cabinet approval of a Rs 1,866 crore Productivity Linked Bonus for railway employees, recognizing their vital contributions.
