Indian Railways approved a ₹299-crore remodelling project for the Visakhapatnam Coaching Yard under the South Coast Railway zone on July 31, 2026. The infrastructure overhaul will add six new platforms, six railway lines, and advanced Electronic Interlocking systems to boost operational capacity and reduce train delays for 80,000 daily commuters.
VISAKHAPATNAM — Indian Railways approved a ₹299-crore comprehensive remodelling project for the Visakhapatnam Coaching Yard on Friday, July 31, 2026, aimed at modernizing one of eastern India’s busiest railway terminals. Sanctioned under the administrative jurisdiction of the South Coast Railway (SCoR) zone, the massive infrastructure initiative involves laying six additional railway lines, constructing six new platforms, and widening existing passenger platforms to expand train handling capacity.
The development addresses growing traffic bottlenecks at Visakhapatnam Railway Station, which currently serves approximately 80,000 daily passengers and handles an average of 113 trains every day. By expanding platform availability and modernizing track geometry, the Ministry of Railways seeks to improve passenger punctuality, lower signal detention times, and accommodate expanding passenger demand across coastal Andhra Pradesh.
Overcoming Track Bottlenecks and Surface Crossings
Under the current yard layout at Visakhapatnam, both terminating and through trains are forced to navigate multiple surface track crossings when entering or leaving the coaching terminal. This design constraint regularly creates operational conflicts between arriving and departing trains, causing detention at approach signals outside the station and limiting overall platform turnover.
The approved Indian Railways approves Rs 299-crore Visakhapatnam Coaching Yard upgrade project restructures the entire yard layout by dismantling redundant loop lines and reorganizing point zones. These track modifications will streamline train movements, allowing multiple train operations to occur simultaneously without track conflict.
Additionally, the project integrates a centralized Electronic Interlocking (EI) system across the yard. By replacing legacy mechanical point systems with computer-controlled route setting, rail operators can switch train tracks with higher precision and safety, significantly cutting down waiting times for incoming long-distance Express and Superfast trains.
Expanding Platform Capacity and Passenger Accessibility
To accommodate higher passenger volumes and longer train formations, the project expands total platform capacity from six to twelve. The existing six platforms will undergo physical widening, while six brand-new platforms will be constructed alongside dedicated stabling lines.
The expanded and widened platforms will feature modern accessibility infrastructure, including escalators, passenger elevators, and covered access ramps to support elderly passengers, persons with disabilities, and travelers with heavy luggage.
| Project Component | Existing Infrastructure | Post-Upgrade Infrastructure |
| Active Platforms | 6 Platforms | 12 Platforms (6 new added) |
| Platform Width | Standard Width | Widened with lifts, ramps & escalators |
| Yard Signaling | Legacy Mechanical Points | Computerized Electronic Interlocking (EI) |
| Station Entrances | Western Side Main Terminal | Dual Entrance (New Eastern Gate Added) |
New Station Entrance and Redesigned Circulating Area
Beyond track re-engineering, the ₹299-crore plan transforms terminal land-side infrastructure. A new passenger entrance will be constructed on the eastern side of Visakhapatnam Railway Station, providing direct access to neighboring urban centers and easing traffic congestion at the primary western entrance.
The Passenger Reservation System (PRS) ticketing counters will be relocated to the new entrance building to streamline ticketing queues. The project also introduces expanded surface parking facilities and a redesigned circulating area outside the station premises, separating pedestrian traffic from autorickshaws, taxis, and public buses.
Official Sources
According to official releases published by rail authorities and government communications portals:
Ministry of Railways: Announced the sanction of the ₹299-crore coaching yard remodelling project under the South Coast Railway zone to boost operational capacity and terminal efficiency.
South Coast Railway (SCoR): Confirmed details regarding the installation of Electronic Interlocking, construction of six new platforms, and the creation of a second terminal entrance on the station's eastern flank.
Visakhapatnam Divisional Railway Office: Detailed plans for track layout reorganization, loop line dismantling, and enhanced passenger mobility facilities including lifts and escalators.
Quotes
"According to officials, eliminating surface track crossings through comprehensive yard remodelling will significantly reduce train detention times at outer signals and enable Visakhapatnam station to introduce additional passenger services."
"Organizers stated that the project combines modern digital signaling with passenger-centric upgrades like new platforms, escalators, and a dedicated eastern entry to provide seamless multimodal connectivity."
Why It Matters
For Train Commuters: Reduces signal waiting times outside Visakhapatnam station and improves overall train punctuality across southern and eastern rail corridors.
For Regional Trade & Tourism: Allows Indian Railways to introduce new origin-terminating trains connecting Visakhapatnam to major commercial hubs across India.
For City Traffic Management: The new eastern entry point spreads vehicle traffic evenly across urban roads, alleviating severe bottlenecks around the central station road.
Key Facts at a Glance
Total Project Outlay: ₹299 crore approved by the Ministry of Railways.
Platform Expansion: Doubles platform count from six to twelve with new lifts and escalators.
Track Improvements: Adds six new railway lines, dismantles redundant loop lines, and reorganizes point zones.
Digital Signaling: Full deployment of Electronic Interlocking (EI) across the coaching yard.
Passenger Footfall: Designed to serve over 80,000 daily commuters and 113 daily train services more efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the Visakhapatnam Coaching Yard upgrade?
The main goal is to eliminate surface track crossings, increase train handling capacity, reduce train delays at approach signals, and improve passenger facilities at Visakhapatnam station.
How many new platforms will be added to Visakhapatnam Railway Station?
Six new platforms will be constructed, and the existing six platforms will be widened, bringing the total number of platforms to twelve.
How will the project improve passenger amenities inside the station?
The upgraded platforms will feature ramps, elevators, and escalators. A new eastern entry terminal will also be developed along with relocated ticket counters and expanded parking areas.
What technology is being introduced for train signaling?
The project introduces an Electronic Interlocking (EI) system, which replaces manual or mechanical point switching with computerized route setting for improved safety and speed.
Source: Ministry of Railways, South Coast Railway, Press Information Bureau India
