Chennai: The pre-bid meeting, for the redevelopment of Chennai Central and Kozhikode stations to international standards, was held on Friday between railway officials and interested developers.
Prospective developers, including architects, bank officials, and Chennai Metro (CMRL) officials participated in the meeting with railway officials.
A representative from the Australian Consulate also attended the meeting, in which ideas to develop the stations on the lines of Melbourne Central Station were exchanged.
“There could be tie-ups with developers to develop the station with features and facilities of the central station in Melbourne,” said an official.
“Eight prospective developers attended the meeting, and also Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) officials.
The CMRL officials told us about the work that will be undertaken at the Moore Market complex and Central stations for the development of Central Square,” said a senior railway official.
The bid for Kozhikode station will be opened on May 22, and that for Chennai Central’s redevelopment is under discussion, and it’s likely to be opened in July 1, a senior railway official said. The meeting was for discussions and clarifications ahead raising bids.
A total of Rs 350 crore and Rs 75 crore have been sanctioned for the redevelopment of Chennai Central and Kozhikode stations. Sources added that the meeting that went on for about four hours was attended by bank officials as well.
“The total indicative project cost for Chennai Central includes the cost of relocation of buildings also. The land will be given to commercial developers for exploitation on a 45-year lease,” said the official.
