Ashwini Vaishnaw Launches Yatri Suvidha Kendra at New Delhi Station

The newly inaugurated Yatri Suvidha Kendra at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) aims to enhance passenger experience during the upcoming festival season, according to Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The facility has been constructed to accommodate approximately 7,000 passengers simultaneously, ensuring a more comfortable pre-boarding experience as passenger volumes surge.

The Yatri Suvidha Kendra features a strategic layout divided into three distinct zones to facilitate smoother passenger movement. These zones include a ticketing area of 2,860 square meters, a post-ticketing area of 1,150 square meters, and a pre-ticketing area covering 1,218 square meters. This design aims to minimize congestion and improve overall comfort at the terminal’s main entrance.

According to the Northern Railway, the facility is equipped with modern amenities designed to ensure passenger convenience and security. Key features include 22 modern ticketing counters, 25 Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs), and seating for up to 200 passengers. Additionally, the Kendra is fitted with 18 high volume low speed (HVLS) fans to provide efficient cooling.

During the construction phase, Northern Railway faced several challenges, including the demolition and relocation of existing structures such as ATMs and a Delhi Police cabin. The sensitive relocation of essential utilities, including water lines and drainage systems, was completed without disrupting daily operations, showcasing effective project management.

Infrastructure Upgrades Enhance Connectivity

In tandem with the Yatri Suvidha Kendra, significant upgrades have also been made to the station’s infrastructure. The extension of Foot Over Bridge 1 (FOB 1) now allows passengers disembarking from trains at NDLS to directly access the Metro Station, thereby improving multimodal connectivity and alleviating platform congestion.

In a related development, the Union Cabinet recently approved a Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) valued at Rs 1,866 crore for railway employees. This bonus will benefit over 10.90 lakh staff across the country, reflecting the government’s commitment to recognizing the dedicated efforts of railway personnel in maintaining smooth operations and enhancing efficiency. The bonus, equivalent to 78 days of wages, underscores the importance of employee contributions during peak travel periods.

The opening of the Yatri Suvidha Kendra and the associated infrastructure improvements come at a crucial time as the festival season approaches, promising a more efficient and comfortable travel experience for millions of passengers traversing one of India’s busiest railway stations.