Second entry at Egmore station lies neglected

Chennai: Unorganised parking and a neglected second entry at Egmore railway station have left train commuters from Egmore irked.

Upon visiting the second entry, bikes of station employees and police personnel were even seen parked inside the booking office building, just outside the ticket inspector's office on the ground floor, and some were parked at the entrance to the booking office.

“Employees park their bikes outside the parking area as it is free,” a ticket examiner parking his vehicle outside the concourse, sheepishly said.

“Poor lighting and lack of safety personnel make it risky for commuters,” said S. Durairaj, a frequent rail commuter. “There is no eatery, toilet or even a tea stall on this side of the station. Even for a cup of tea, I have to walk to the other side,” he said explaining his dissatisfaction.

A station official said railways is working with RPF to bring upon changes. “We penalize employees caught parking their bikes outside but can't keep a tab every day. As RPF is present at the main entrance, the unauthorized parking has reduced and a lot of fines have been collected. Lack of security men at the second entry is leading to this problem,” he added.

Commuters also complained of increased car traffic at the main entrance leading to congestion. “If they split the load between both the entries, it would be better for commuters, and reduce traffic jam,” said another commuter.

“In a few months, a food plaza is going to be operational at the second entrance. If commuters are not given basic facilities at that end, why would people even come to the food joint?” said an IRCTC official. “Tambaram station is being developed to provide facilities at East and West sides now. It should be done at Egmore, which is the second-largest station in the city. When a passenger is paying for a ticket, should he not be provided facilities like toilets and food joints for his convenience?” he asked.

“A metro station will be functional soon. Railways should be developing this part of the station so that people get facilities on par with the metro and also help bring revenue,” he continued.