Two new railway stations to soon serve commuters, work to be completed by THIS month; Here’s what we know so far
Safdarjung and Bijwasan railway stations in Delhi are nearing completion and will soon be able to handle long-distance trains that currently pass through the crowded New Delhi station. The revamped stations, which are expected to be ready by March 2025, will reduce traffic congestion and offer closer boarding options.
Commuters in Delhi and the National Capital Region may soon experience a significant change in the way they embark on long-distance rail journeys. With the Ministry of Railways expediting the redevelopment of Safdarjung and Bijwasan railway stations, authorities are considering diverting many trains from the congested New Delhi Railway Station to these modernized terminals.
Currently, New Delhi station handles the bulk of long-distance traffic in the region, forcing residents from all corners of NCR to travel to the city centre. However, this may change by March 2025, when both Safdarjung and Bijwasan stations are expected to be ready for operations. The redevelopment of these stations is part of the government’s Amrit Bharat Station Plan, which envisages upgrading 13 stations in the Delhi Division to modern standards.
Why are Safdarjung and Bijwasan important?
Bijwasan Railway Station will emerge as the fifth largest station in Delhi after New Delhi, Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin and Anand Vihar. It was designed to carry a significant portion of long-distance trains with seven platforms. One of the biggest advantages will be seamless connectivity; Plans include an overpass connecting the station to subway corridors and parking areas. This feature will help passengers avoid road congestion and go directly to the platforms.
Meanwhile, Safdarjung Railway Station is also being developed into a unique mixed-use complex. The redevelopment includes space for around 2,200 office units, making it the first railway station in India to be integrated with a business centre. Employees working in the complex will be able to access the platforms within minutes, creating a new model for commercial development linked to urban transport.
Why can trains be shifted from New Delhi Station?
New Delhi station itself is undergoing large-scale renovation. Although initial work will be limited to surrounding areas, construction will eventually progress towards operational areas. In such a case, train movement will need to be temporarily rerouted. Officials claim that Bijwasan can handle trains to Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat and other western routes, while Safdarjung can handle trains to Howrah, Lucknow and Jammu.
What are the benefits for Delhi-NCR residents?
Many commuters living near South or Southwest Delhi, as well as parts of Gurgaon, are currently traveling long distances to reach New Delhi station. Once trains start running from Safdarjung and Bijwasan, these residents will be able to board the train much closer to their homes. This change is expected to reduce travel time, ease crowding at New Delhi station and improve the overall convenience of millions of passengers.
