Indo-French style Thirunallar Railway Station building nearing completion

The Thirunallar Railway Station, designed in an Indo-French architectural style, is nearing completion, promising to be a significant landmark in the region

The Thirunallar Railway Station, designed in an Indo-French architectural style, is nearing completion, promising to be a significant landmark in the region. The station not only reflects the historical Indo-French architectural influence but also embodies the spiritual essence of the renowned Thirunallar Sri Saneeswara Bhagavan Temple.

The station building has been constructed with a pile foundation and stands as a high-elevated ground-plus-two-floor structure. It features a plinth area of 368 sq m on each floor, with dimensions of 46 m x 8 m on the ground, first, and second floors.

The station is equipped with modern passenger amenities, including a spacious circulating area, a front concourse, waiting halls for both men and women, retiring rooms, ticket counters, and both lift and staircase access. Operational facilities such as the station master’s room, station manager’s office, relay signal rooms, electrical and generator rooms, and a commercial room have been incorporated into the building design.

Situated in the Karaikal district of Puducherry, Thirunallar has a historical connection to the French colonial era during which Indo-French architectural elements were introduced. This influence is prominently reflected in the station’s design, preserving cultural heritage while integrating modern functionality. The colour scheme and lower portion of the structure exhibit distinct French architectural influences while the upper part of the building has been designed to resemble the Saneeswara Bhagavan Temple, representing traditional Indian temple architecture.

The construction, which began in mid-2023 with an estimated budget of ₹3 crore, is expected to be completed before May this year, enhancing railway connectivity and passenger convenience in the region.