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PM Modi launches Amrit Bharat Station Scheme to modernize railway infrastructure, to inaugurate stations next
'Amrit Bharat,' focuses on enhancing basic facilities and comfort levels at stations, including improved entry and exit points, waiting halls, toilets, and platforms. Stations are being upgraded with escalators, elevators, free Wi-Fi, and clearer signage read more
India's railway stations, often considered bustling symbols of its towns and cities, are getting a significant makeover through the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, a nationwide initiative aimed at transforming passenger travel experience.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate 103 railway stations across 18 states on May 22 from Bikaner, Rajasthan. This inauguration marks a major step in the long-term modernization plan designed to upgrade railway stations in phased approaches tailored specifically to each location's unique needs.
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The ambitious scheme, named 'Amrit Bharat,' focuses on enhancing basic facilities and comfort levels at stations, including improved entry and exit points, waiting halls, toilets, and platforms. Stations are being upgraded with escalators, elevators, free Wi-Fi, clearer signage, and sophisticated information systems to streamline passenger movement, according to PIB.
To further enrich passenger experience, select stations will include executive lounges and designated business meeting spaces. Embracing the government's 'One Station One Product' initiative, local products unique to each region will be displayed and sold, promoting regional craftsmanship and culture. These items range from indigenous handicrafts, textiles like chikankari and zari-zardozi, spices, teas, and other locally produced specialties.
Central to the Amrit Bharat Scheme is the intent to integrate railway stations more effectively with the urban landscape, transforming them into vibrant hubs beyond mere transit points. Improved road access, pedestrian-friendly pathways, dedicated parking, and eco-friendly solutions like noise-free tracks are integral to this vision.
Each station redevelopment reflects regional culture and architecture. Ahmedabad's redesigned station, for example, draws inspiration from Gujarat's iconic Modhera Sun Temple. In Odisha, Baleshwar station will echo the architectural grandeur of the Jagannath Temple, while Gurugram's station will embrace a modern IT theme.
Accessibility remains a priority. Aligning with India's 'Sugamya Bharat Mission' (Accessible India Campaign), the Amrit Bharat Scheme ensures comprehensive accessibility features for passengers with disabilities. Facilities include entrance ramps, tactile paths for visually impaired passengers, accessible parking, low-height ticket counters, Braille signage, and lifts or ramps connecting foot over bridges.
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The origin of this extensive modernization drive dates back to 2021, when Gandhinagar became India's first railway station to undergo substantial renovation, incorporating a five-star hotel and advanced facilities. Shortly afterward, Rani Kamalapati Railway Station, formerly known as Habibganj, also received significant enhancements.
Officials assert that the overarching goal of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is to redefine stations as places reflecting local pride, heritage, and progress. The railway ministry views this initiative as essential to accommodate India's growing population and evolving travel expectations.
Ultimately, the scheme underscores the Indian government's commitment to creating sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready public infrastructure, reflecting an ambitious vision for India's railways as more than just a means of transportation.
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