Prayagraj Junction Passengers Suffer in Scorching Heat as Platform Sheds Remain Incomplete and Escalator Stays Closed
Prayagraj: Thousands of passengers using Prayagraj Junction are facing considerable inconvenience due to inadequate passenger facilities at the railway station.
The absence of sufficient shade on platforms and the closure of an escalator have forced travellers to wait under the open sky amid intense summer temperatures.
A scene witnessed on Platforms 9 and 10 at around 2:45 pm on Monday highlighted the difficulties being faced by commuters. Several passengers waiting for trains, including the Gorakhpur-bound Vande Bharat Express (22550), were seen struggling in the harsh heat and bright sunlight.
Many people had no option but to sit on the platform floor or stand in exposed areas because adequate seating and covered waiting spaces were unavailable.
Passengers Forced to Wait in Open Areas
Passengers complained that parts of the platforms remain uncovered due to ongoing construction work.
Since the available shaded areas are limited, large numbers of commuters are compelled to wait in direct sunlight, making their journey uncomfortable and exhausting.
Women travelling with children and carrying luggage appeared particularly distressed. Many were repeatedly moving from one spot to another in search of shade.
Several passengers said that they had purchased expensive tickets expecting modern facilities and a comfortable travel experience but instead found themselves standing in unbearable conditions.
One passenger from Jaipur, waiting for the Vande Bharat train, remarked that there was hardly any suitable place to sit and rest.
According to him, the station’s infrastructure does not match the expectations associated with premium trains.
Partial Platform Coverage Adds to Commuters’ Problems
Railway officials stated that portions of Platforms 9 and 10 have been opened to facilitate train operations, while construction activities continue in other sections. The incomplete work has left significant stretches without protective sheds.
Passengers travelling on the New Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Express (22436), which arrived at around 12:10 pm, also faced similar difficulties. They were seen standing outside the limited shaded areas because of the lack of adequate covered space
Officials said that once construction is completed, the remaining sections of the platforms will also be equipped with proper roofing and passenger amenities.
Until then, travellers are likely to continue facing difficulties, especially during periods of extreme heat or rainfall.
Escalator Closure Causes Further Inconvenience
The problems have been compounded by the closure of an escalator at the station.
The escalator installed to provide easier access to Platform 10 has reportedly remained non-operational since Monday afternoon.
As a result, elderly passengers, women with children and those carrying heavy luggage have been forced to climb stairs to reach the platform.
Commuters said that the station witnesses heavy footfall throughout the day, and the non-functioning escalator has significantly increased inconvenience.
Passengers demanded that railway authorities immediately restore the escalator and ensure that it remains operational, particularly during peak travel periods.
Railways Assure Better Facilities After Completion of Work
Railway officials maintained that platform expansion and construction activities are being undertaken to improve passenger amenities in the long run.
They said additional sheds, seating arrangements and improved access facilities will be provided after the project is completed.
However, passengers believe that temporary arrangements should be made until the work is finished. T
They have urged the railway administration to install provisional shade structures and ensure that essential facilities remain functional so that travellers do not have to endure discomfort in extreme weather conditions.
