In a significant move to enhance rail connectivity and decongest the bustling Vijayawada Junction, the Indian Railways is planning to provide halts for MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) and express trains at Gunadala railway station. The initiative is part of a larger vision to develop Gunadala as a satellite station under the ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
Gunadala station, strategically located within Vijayawada city, is undergoing a major infrastructure overhaul in its first phase of development, with an estimated investment of ₹34.30 crore. The announcement was made by Additional Divisional Railway Manager (ADRM – Infrastructure) P.E. Edwin and Deputy Chief Engineer of the Gati Shakti Vijayawada Unit, P.V. Ramana Rao, who emphasized the station’s future role in easing rail traffic pressure from the overburdened Vijayawada Junction.
“The development of Gunadala is a key step in improving operational efficiency and ensuring better travel experiences for passengers,” said ADRM Edwin. “Once fully functional, it will cater to both local commuters and long-distance travelers, reducing dependency on the main junction.”
Key Developments at Gunadala Station:
- ₹34.30 crore allocated for Phase I development
- Modernization under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, a pan-India initiative to transform key railway stations into world-class transport hubs
- Planned halts for MEMU and Express trains to serve increasing passenger demand
- Aimed at decongesting Vijayawada Junction, one of the busiest in South India
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Railways, envisions integrated and holistic development of railway stations across India by upgrading facilities, improving passenger amenities, and ensuring multimodal connectivity.
Gunadala’s development is also expected to boost local economic activity, improve commuter convenience in the Gunadala and surrounding regions, and act as a catalyst for regional development.
Public Reaction and Expectations
Local residents and frequent rail users have welcomed the move, calling it a long-overdue development. “Having MEMU trains stop here will be a huge relief for daily commuters,” said S. Ramesh, a local resident and office-goer. “It’s time Vijayawada got a supporting station to handle its growing rail traffic.”
The Indian Railways is expected to unveil more details regarding the second phase of Gunadala’s development in the coming months, with further upgrades and additional train services anticipated.
