Station, lost in its past glory

BANGALORE: The Cantonment Railway Station seems to be set in the backdrop of British India taking us back several years into the past.One of the oldest railway stations in the city, it was built by the Britishers in order to facilitate trading in the city.This antiquity is worthless indeed.It is the second most important station in Bangalore behind the bustling City Railway Station and requires a make over.The problem with the station is that the station seems to be lost in its past glory.UnclutteredAs you enter the building of Cantonment Railway Station one of the most striking points about the station is cleanliness of the station which is definitely worth appreciation.Maintenance staff are present at all times to keep it hygienic.Retro foot overbridgeThe foot overbridge also seems to be stuck in the British era.It is extremely old and is made up of wooden planks. It is a thrilling experience for one to go across the bridge as it trembles when one walks on it. The bridge also seems to have become a home for strays as it has given shelter to many dogs and their families.Work still in progress?The clocks that are fitted in the station, have forgotten their time.The needles of these clocks seem to have got adhered to one position.Although the clock has been labeled as 'work in progress' in order to warn the passengers, the clocks have been in the same dysfunctional state for a very long time. Though this station exists in 21st century, it preserves the antiques of history.Biased behaviourThe station seems to have a biased attitude towards its passengers as there are no adequate measures to help the differently-abled people.The wheelchairs have been left discarded on the platform and no separate ramps for the disabled have been provided throughout the expanse of the entire station.People talkPeople have contrary views about the railway station. “The station is not up to the mark. The authorities should definitely work on the improvement of the station.” said Srinivasa, a student and a daily passenger. “I like the station and according to me, it is one of the best railway stations in Bangalore.” said Umar, a daily passenger.Worth waitingThe waiting rooms in the station are well maintained. Be it the general waiting room or the ladies waiting room, it is regularly cleaned.Positive pointsThe pay and use toilets are open 24 hours a day and charge a minimum charge of Rs. 1.Unlike many other public toilets in Bangalore, they are spotless.Dustbins have been installed at equal distances in order to prevent the littering of platforms. The taps fulfill their purpose by providing people with drinking water.Under progressWork in the station has begun on the laying of tiles in order to give it a facelift.People are excited about this as it may mean that Cantonment Railway Station is finally breaking out of its shackles.Authorities saySaid the spokesperson for Bangalore Railways, Biswas, “If a new overbridge is required, we will equip the station with one.”