Glass facade to replace funnels at CST subway

Mumbai: In what will bring a smile to commuters, the subway at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSTM) will soon sport a swanky look with glass façade gates for improved ventilation. The brown-tinted carbonate funnels will make way for a transparent, toughened glass structure affording great views of heritage buildings in the vicinity.

Civic officials said that the subway revamp would be carried out as part of beautification of iconic locations undertaken by the BMC. Along with the subway makeover, plans were also afoot for setting up a viewing gallery, beautifying Bhatia Baug, and changing footpaths and railings near BMC headquarters and CSTM.

Kiran Dighavkar, assistant municipal commissioner, A-ward, said, “In the subway revamp project, all its existing gates will be replaced by doors made of glass and steel. The design has been prepared by studying subways at some of the leading railway stations in the world. Tenders will soon be issued for this.”

The subway was thrown open to the public in September 1999. Admeasuring 2,870 square metres, it was built at a cost of Rs 15 crore to compliment the Gothic arches of its surroundings. However, those travelling by the subway complained of poor ventilation, skin infections and respiratory disorders.

He added, “The new design has been made in such a way that there is proper ventilation for commuters. We have also planned to cover the roof with tinted film so that commuters are protected from direct sunlight. The top portion will be tilted to avoid monsoon leakage. In addition to this, the glass structure will be illuminated at night, providing attractive views.”