One of the city’s biggest termini, the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) in Kurla, is every commuter’s nightmare despite a revamp. To ensure that chaos is no longer compounded, a new plan of modernisation is all set to give it a 360-degree makeover, including a five-star hotel, offices and better connectivity.
As per the initial plans drawn up by the Central Railway (CR) and other authorities, several thousands of square feet may soon be available for commercial use at Kurla LTT. Senior railway officials said they are expecting big hospitality organisations and companies to construct a four or five-star hotel, commercial office space and air-conditioned resting rooms for passengers. “We are still working it out, along with the floor space index that will be available at Kurla LTT and around Tilak Nagar station for commercial development,” said a CR official.After shifting the terminus to a new, better location at Kurla LTT, the old location has ample land available.
Here, a prepaid auto/taxi stand was started, which is still not operational. In addition, there is space available under the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road (SCLR) flyover, too. Sources in the railways said they are looking at overall development and improved connectivity, which also includes creating links with SCLR from Kurla LTT.
Subhash Gupta, president of Rail Yatri Parishad, said Kurla LTT has scope for commercial utilisation, which can not only generate revenue but also provide a better passenger experience. Gupta said, “Currently, people are still sceptical coming here to board long-distance trains. They should also connect Kurla LTT, Kurla and Tilak Nagar railway stations with the travelator. Plus, an affordable yet good hotel can ease the travel plans of businessmen and office-goers coming to the city for a day or two for work
