The ongoing redevelopment of Cuttack railway station, initiated in April last year and expected to conclude next year, is set to become a cultural showcase. The East Coast Railway reveals plans to feature Cuttack’s rich cultural heritage along with the ‘Bali Jatra’ prominently in the new station building.
What is the ‘Bali Jatra’ Tradition
The ‘Bali Jatra’ tradition holds historical significance, reflecting the maritime history of Cuttack. In ancient times, Odisha‘s residents sailed to destinations like Bali, Java, Sumatra, and Sri Lanka for trade along the Mahanadi riverbanks. The annual ‘Bali Jatra’ fair, held on Kartik Purnima, commemorates this seafaring legacy.
Architectural Essence: Boita Boat and Tribal Paintings
Chief Engineer (Construction) of East Coast Railway, Ajay Kumar Samal, shared that the redeveloped station will capture the essence of ‘Bali Jatra.’ A prominent feature will be a representation of the traditional large boat, locally known as Boita, raised on the Mahanadi riverbed. Additionally, the station’s inner walls, especially in the waiting area, will showcase local tribal paintings, reflecting the city’s cultural roots.
Indian Railways’ Amrit Station Scheme: Focus on Cultural Heritage
The redevelopment falls under the Indian Railways‘ Amrit Station Scheme, aiming to highlight and protect the cultural heritage of cities. Cuttack station, with its three-storey structure, will offer world-class amenities including separate arrival and departure concourses, a spacious food court, and a modern retiring room.
Seamless Passenger Experience: Integration and Sustainability
The purpose of the redevelopment is to integrate the station complex with various infrastructure and facilities, ensuring a seamless experience for passengers. According to Samal, the project envisions meeting the future footfall 50 years from now. Sixty percent of the structural work is already complete, and the project emphasizes self-sustained, energy-efficient, green building practices.
Roof Plaza Concourse and Additional Facilities
Cuttack’s redeveloped station will feature a roof plaza concourse above the railway tracks, providing ample space for additional passenger facilities. The plan includes creating more space and better facilities for passengers, aligning with the overall redevelopment scheme. To enhance accessibility, two footover bridges are under construction, connecting the west-side entry to the east-side entry, along the national highway side.
(With PTI Inputs)