RailEnquiry

CHANDIGARH: The railways authorities have finalized a proposal to come up with a new parking area for passengers who drive in and want to leave their vehicles behind while they board the train for the onward journey. If officials here have their way, the railway station would have a parking lot dedicated exclusively to those who leave behind their vehicles before their set out on the train journey.

As of now, the station does offer the parking facility, but not an exclusive one. Many commuters, especially those who undertake a daylong trip, like via Shatabdi to Delhi, leave behind their vehicles in parking lots which are open to all. A dedicated parking lot would definitely provide better security to vehicles than is offered in "mixed" lots, say officials. The authorities are keen on improving the facilities at the railway station and as part of the plan, have already started renovating the stairs to footbridge and are laying granite marble stones there. For security of passengers, 10 CCTV cameras will be installed in different parts of the station, including the parking area, reservation area, entrance and exit.

The proposal has been sent for approval to the Ambala regional railway station. As part of the ongoing work, floor on both sides of platform number 1 is being renovated with Kota stone. The work is expected to be over by next month.

Station superintendent Parveen Kumar said, "Most of the proposals have been passed and work already begun. Talks are going on with the officials of the Ambala regional railway station for clearance of the awaited proposals."

"Parking is a big problem here and the authorities should consider building a multi-level parking lot. Whenever I have to go to

Delhi and want to leave my car behind, there is no place to park it. It is a big problem," said Kulwinder Bhatti, an insurance manager.