How a Delhi transit hub evolved from a foundation stone to airport-style infrastructure

How a Delhi transit hub evolved from a foundation stone to airport-style infrastructure
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In short: Anand Vihar Terminal serves as a critical gateway for long-distance travel across northern and eastern India. Spanning 42 hectares, this massive railway complex has transformed significantly since its inception, evolving from a basic terminal into a modern, multi-modal hub integrated with metro, regional transit, and inter-state bus services.

The development of Anand Vihar Terminal began following a 2003 announcement, with the official start of construction marked by a foundation stone ceremony in January 2004. After navigating various scheduling setbacks, the facility was opened in December 2009 by then-Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee and Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit. The project initially cost 850 million rupees, covering the creation of a two-storey station building, three platforms, and necessary maintenance infrastructure.

The station's role expanded significantly following a 2010 stampede at the New Delhi railway station, which prompted authorities to shift the origin points of numerous long-haul trains to Anand Vihar. This transition necessitated physical growth; the platform count eventually rose to seven, supplemented by a dedicated structure for suburban rail services. The site has since integrated diverse amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi, specialized accessibility features, and a heritage gallery, while prioritizing sustainability through a 1.1 MW solar project installed in 2016.

Recent years have seen a focus on passenger experience and modernization. In 2020, the terminal earned a five-star rating for its food-related facilities. By 2025-26, the station underwent a comprehensive upgrade costing 224.48 crore rupees, aimed at providing an airport-style environment. Today, it functions as a primary node for east-bound traffic, connecting Delhi to states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal through an extensive network of Vande Bharat, Rajdhani, and Humsafar express trains.

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