Redevelopment of Ludhiana railway station, Punjab

Abstract

For over a century, the Railway Industry has been a reliable service provider in India, connecting people across the country and contributing to India's competitiveness in the global market. Despite the development of cities and urban areas, railways remain the most economical and practical mode of transportation within cities. However, railway stations have not kept up with modern development and are often seen as unclean and overcrowded places to simply board trains. Despite the rising demand for services, most stations have not been updated to accommodate the growing needs of the public. The spaces and services provided at railway platforms and nearby areas are no longer sufficient to meet the needs of commuters. While the Indian railways have focused on running more trains to cater to increasing demand, the importance of improving the station's environment has been neglected. However, redeveloping railway stations presents an opportunity to transform the city's landscape. Redeveloping Ludhiana Railway Station into a modern transportation hub by integrating other transport systems which can generate revenue and drive the development of surrounding areas. The aim is to create a new typology of railway stations, with added retail functions, while minimizing the environmental impact and maintaining a dialogue with the city that surrounds it. The goal is to create a station that is not just a place to board trains but a hub of activity, connecting the city and promoting community interaction.