Jamshedpur: In a major move to streamline traffic and modernize passenger amenities, the VIP lane at Tatanagar Railway Station has been closed. In its place, the railway administration has decided to construct a third dropping line alongside the existing two. One of these three lines will eventually be designated as the new, revamped VIP lane.
Tarun Huria, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Chakradharpur Division, arrived at Tatanagar station by road on Saturday afternoon to oversee preparations. Following his instructions, the VIP lane was sealed off using steel barricades.
During the inspection, the DRM directed the ADRM (Coordination) to expedite the construction of the third dropping line to ensure smoother vehicle movement for passengers and high-profile guests. The closure has reportedly caused some dissatisfaction among certain groups, who have threatened protests against the decision.
The DRM took a strict stance on traffic violations within the station premises. Upon spotting a car parked illegally outside the designated zone—likely by a visitor who had gone to one of the platforms to receive guests—the DRM ordered the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to seize the vehicle and levy a fine.
With President Droupadi Murmu scheduled to arrive in Jamshedpur on December 29, the DRM conducted an extensive on-foot inspection from the station entrance to Golpahari Chowk. He expressed strong displeasure over several maintenance issues.
He ordered that a heap of garbage found outside the Train Lighting Department be cleared immediately. Huria also directed the railway officials that some exposed iron rods in the walls should be cut, and a damaged signboard for the Senior Section Engineer (P-Way) is to be replaced.
Huria also pointed out dusty gates at the Signal Department, leaking water tanks, and low boundary walls, and ordered immediate repair and cleaning. At the Government Railroad Police (GRP) station, the DRM directed the removal of cobwebs and the repair of broken drainage slabs, and that the empty spot outside the “Time Out” restaurant should be utilized.
