Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conducted a comprehensive review of the development works at Puri railway station on Friday, ahead of the annual Rath Yatra festival. With thousands of pilgrims expected to visit the holy town during the Yatra, scheduled in July, the visit aimed at ensuring all necessary upgrades are completed in time to handle the increased passenger traffic.
The minister examined ongoing projects related to station redevelopment, passenger amenities, security measures, and crowd management. He interacted with senior railway officials, engineers, and local administrative staff to assess progress and gave strict instructions for the timely completion of the works.
Speaking to the media, Vaishnaw stated, "Puri is not just a station; it is a gateway for lakhs of devotees coming for the Rath Yatra. We are committed to enhancing the infrastructure to provide a safe, clean, and efficient experience to all travelers."
The Puri station is undergoing several enhancements, including platform expansion, modern waiting halls, digital information systems, upgraded toilets, and improved accessibility features for senior citizens and differently-abled passengers. These initiatives are part of the Indian Railways’ broader plan to modernize key stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
The minister also reviewed arrangements for sanitation, drinking water availability, food stalls, and emergency medical support that will be critical during the festival period. Special attention is being paid to crowd flow management, with the deployment of additional security personnel, signage, and a dedicated helpdesk for pilgrims.
Officials informed that special trains are being planned to accommodate the heavy rush during Rath Yatra. Coordination with the Odisha state government is underway to ensure seamless movement between the railway station and the Jagannath Temple.
Local residents and business owners welcomed the minister’s visit, expressing hope that the infrastructure overhaul will boost tourism and ease long-standing issues during the Yatra period. “Every year the station gets overcrowded. These upgrades are much needed,” said Manoj Das, a shopkeeper near the station.
Railway Minister Vaishnaw assured that the central government is committed to transforming Puri into a model pilgrimage destination, blending tradition with modern amenities. He is expected to revisit the site in coming weeks to monitor further progress.
The Rath Yatra is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, drawing devotees from across India and abroad. The development works at Puri railway station aim to enhance the spiritual journey for all who attend.
