The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) redevelopment project is currently facing a major hurdle. The work is being affected due to the non-availability of the ‘gypsum’ material required for this ambitious Rs 2,450 crore project.
The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) said that the material is imported from Saudi Arabia. However, the supply chain has been disrupted due to the Iran-US/Israel war and the prices of other construction materials including gypsum have also increased significantly. Due to this, the beautification work of the offices at the Central Railway Headquarters at CSMT is being delayed.
Gypsum boards are widely used in modern office interiors. This material is useful for false ceilings, partitions, decorative walls. It provides benefits like heat control, moisture resistance and fire resistance. However, the work is currently stalled due to the shortage of this material.
Meanwhile, 21.5 per cent of the CSMT redevelopment project has been completed. Currently, work is underway at Platform 18 on P. D’Mello Road and an elevated deck is being constructed. This deck will be connected to Platform 1.
A mega block of 85 days has been taken up for this project from February 1 and will continue till April 26. This block is required for infrastructure work on Platforms 16 and 17. During this period, long-distance trains will not run from these platforms and some trains are being halted at Dadar and Thane.
CSMT, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be transformed into a modern, airport-like transit hub, while preserving its Victorian Gothic architectural style.
The project will include separate arrivals and departures areas, a large concourse, modern passenger facilities, multi-level parking for over 700 vehicles, shopping arcades, restaurants and retail spaces. Also, an elevated deck and skywalk called ‘Rail-O-Police’ will connect all the platforms.
The entire project is targeted to be completed by 2027-28. However, it is being expressed that the pace of work may be affected to some extent due to the difficulties created by the global situation.