The long-awaited redevelopment of Jalandhar City Railway Station is set to enter its construction phase within the next 10 to 15 days. As part of the ambitious project, the existing railway overbridge (ROB) underpass area and surrounding infrastructure will undergo major changes. While the redevelopment promises a modern railway station with improved passenger facilities, it is also expected to create significant traffic disruptions for several months
According to officials, work will begin after relocating the railway parcel office (dockyard) to a temporary site. A team from the Railway Headquarters in Chandigarh has already inspected multiple locations for shifting the facility, paving the way for construction activities to commence.
Traffic Diversions Likely
One of the biggest challenges during the construction period will be traffic management. The road connecting the railway station to the Railway Colony will be closed once work begins. Vehicles travelling between the station and the city will have to rely on alternative routes, increasing congestion on nearby roads.
Traffic movement is expected to be diverted through Railway Colony Road, DJRP Road and adjacent streets. These roads are narrower than the existing approach, raising concerns about bottlenecks, especially during peak hours.
Daily Commuters to Feel the Impact
Thousands of passengers use Jalandhar City Railway Station every day, and the closure of the main access road is likely to affect both private vehicles and public transport. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, buses and two-wheelers may face delays due to diversions and restricted movement near the station.
Officials believe the biggest challenge will be managing traffic near the temporary routes while ensuring uninterrupted access for railway passengers.
New Station Building Planned
The redevelopment project includes the construction of a new station building measuring approximately 90 metres in length and 20 metres in width. The modern facility will feature upgraded passenger amenities and improved connectivity, making it one of the major railway infrastructure projects in Punjab.
To make way for the new structure, several existing buildings near the station will be demolished in phases. Authorities have assured that demolition and construction activities will be carried out systematically to minimise inconvenience.
Market Area Expected to Witness Congestion
Local traders and residents have expressed concerns over prolonged traffic jams in the market areas surrounding the railway station. With the closure of key roads, commercial activity may also be affected as delivery vehicles and customers will have to take longer routes.
Experts suggest that proper traffic planning, clear signboards and regular coordination between railway authorities and the traffic police will be essential to reduce inconvenience during the construction period.
Key Roads That Will Be Affected
The redevelopment is expected to impact traffic movement on several important roads around the railway station, including:
Railway Colony Road
DJRP Road
Mandi Fentonganj Road
Outer Railway Road
Railway Colony Chowk
Dockyard Approach Road
Tommyiya Pul (Overbridge) side approach
Roads leading towards the District Administrative
A Long-Term Upgrade
Although commuters are likely to face difficulties during the construction phase, the redevelopment is expected to transform Jalandhar City Railway Station into a modern transport hub with better passenger facilities and improved infrastructure. Authorities have appealed to the public to cooperate during the temporary disruptions, emphasising that the project will provide long-term benefits for both travellers and the city.
