The busy station will be the first on the Central line to get a unit installed
Commuters using the foot over bridge (FOB) at Vikhroli station can look forward to the comfort of using escalators, as Central Railway (CR) authorities have proposed to make access to the platforms step-free.
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According to CR sources, Vikhroli was not on the list of stations that were initially chosen for the makeover, but have only recently added the station. Basic construction has already begun and commuters can look forward to using the moving walkways by 2014.
“As a pilot project, we are planning to install escalators at Vikhroli station,” said a senior CR official, on condition of anonymity. Vikhroli residents have been known for their pro-active approach when it comes to rail amenities. After several cases of trespassing-related accidents last year, locals protested vociferously until CR authorities agreed to close the level crossing and commissioned a FOB at the south-end of the station, which was thrown open to the public in June last year.
The escalator to be set up at Vikhroli is estimated to cost Rs 75 lakh each, and would be one metre wide and will climb up to six metres. Officials agree that since these escalators will be subjected to heavy use by commuters, they would ensure that sturdy material is used while manufacturing the units. Also, regular maintenance will be a key necessity.
Climb at ease
According to plans, escalators had been proposed at CST, Dadar, Thane and Kalyan station by the CR authorities.
In total, the railways have planned 31 escalators on both Central and Western lines, and besides providing greater ease for commuters, passenger dispersal from platforms and stations will be quicker with escalators.
Rs 75L
Cost of the escalator that will be installed at Vikhroliu00a0u00a0
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