PM Modi Inaugurates 103 Redeveloped Railway Stations Under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

In a landmark step towards modernizing India’s railway infrastructure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated 103 redeveloped railway stations across the country. The event was conducted through video conferencing from Bikaner, Rajasthan. These stations have been upgraded under the ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), with the Ministry of Railways confirming that the redevelopment was carried out at a cost exceeding ₹1,100 crore.

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is a visionary initiative by Indian Railways aimed at transforming over 1,300 railway stations in a phased manner. This scheme focuses on creating modern, passenger-friendly hubs that blend sustainable design with regional architectural aesthetics. It emphasizes inclusivity through facilities for persons with disabilities and promotes eco-friendly practices. Furthermore, the stations are being integrated with other modes of transport such as buses and metro services to improve connectivity and convenience for commuters.

Among the 103 stations inaugurated, five are in Karnataka Gadag, Dharwad, Bagalkot, Munirabad, and Gokak Road. These stations have seen significant infrastructure upgrades to improve passenger experience. For instance, Gadag Railway Station, redeveloped at a cost of ₹23.24 crore, now features a new building, an expansive entry hall, upgraded platforms, wide shelters, Divyangjan-friendly amenities, a 12-meter-wide foot overbridge, as well as functional lifts and escalators. Similarly, Dharwad Railway Station underwent renovations worth ₹17.1 crore, including a new entrance, a wide foot overbridge, three lifts, two escalators, digital clocks, and enhanced signage for better passenger guidance.

Bagalkot Station received improvements costing ₹16.06 crore, which include a new building, upgraded waiting areas, and dedicated parking facilities. Munirabad Station, revamped at a cost of ₹18.4 crore, now has modern shelters, digital information systems, and accessible infrastructure. Being the nearest major railhead to Hampi, it is also expected to support tourism growth in the region. Gokak Road Station in Belagavi district was redeveloped at ₹16.98 crore and now boasts a G+1 building, wider circulation areas, a foot overbridge, and improved platforms to facilitate regional connectivity.

The scheme also includes enhancements such as lifts, escalators, modern toilets, upgraded roofing, Wi-Fi access, and comfortable waiting halls. Some stations will now feature executive lounges and business meeting rooms. The 'One Station One Product' initiative, a unique element of the ABSS, provides space for local artisans and entrepreneurs to promote regional crafts and products through dedicated kiosks, thereby supporting local economies and preserving indigenous cultures.

Across India, stations in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh were also inaugurated today. Major names include Matunga and Itwari Junction in Maharashtra, Saharanpur and Idgah Agra Junction in Uttar Pradesh, Chidambaram and St. Thomas Mount in Tamil Nadu, Mithapur and Morbi in Gujarat, and Katni South and Orchha in Madhya Pradesh. These developments reflect Indian Railways’ commitment to enhancing the travel experience while transforming stations into vibrant, multipurpose public spaces.

Gandhinagar Railway Station in Gujarat, which was redeveloped in 2021, continues to serve as a model for the ABSS. It set a benchmark by integrating a five-star hotel and offering world-class passenger amenities, symbolizing the future direction Indian Railways is pursuing through this scheme.