Balod Railway Station Gets a Makeover, But Passengers’ Biggest Demand Remains Unmet

Balod: The redevelopment of Balod Railway Station, under the South East Central Railway's Raipur division, has been completed as part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The station has been fitted out with modern amenities, making it more comfortable, safer and of a higher standard for passengers.

The station has been beautified with local art and culture-themed paintings and landscaped gardens, alongside the development and expansion of other passenger amenities, renovated waiting rooms, widened roads for smoother access, an organised parking area, improved lighting, designer signage, and easier approach roads to the station.

Claim: Work on Second Platform Under Way

Recent information released by the railway's public relations department stated that approval had been granted for the construction of a second platform at Balod station. Local passengers have demanded that the process be completed quickly so construction can begin, providing relief to commuters. The railway department has said that passenger safety and convenience remain its top priority, adding that redevelopment projects are not only strengthening stations physically but also introducing state-of-the-art security measures such as CCTV cameras and emergency services.

Facilities Currently Available at the Station

The station now features a grand entrance gate for smooth entry and exit, giving it an attractive look. A lift facility has been installed for passenger convenience, offering greater comfort particularly to elderly and differently-abled passengers. Covered sheds have been put up on the platform to protect passengers from rain and sun, along with a coach guidance display system providing accurate information on train and coach positions. Modern signage boards, similar to those seen in malls, have been installed for directions and information.

Special provisions have also been made for differently-abled passengers, including ramps, marked parking and low-height ticket booking counters. Separate toilets, low-height drinking water booths and wheelchair facilities are available, along with a coach guidance system, signage and standard tactile guides.

Station Still Needs Another Platform

While Balod station is now equipped with modern facilities, its biggest current problem is the absence of a second platform. When two trains arrive simultaneously, passengers can board and alight comfortably on platform number one, but the lack of a second platform causes difficulties for those needing to use the other side. Passengers Rajesh Sahu, Devendra Kumar, Tarun, Devbati and Ragini Yadav said the station has been built very well, but stressed that a second platform is essential regardless of the circumstances.