The Ministry of Railways has successfully completed redevelopment work at 180 railway stations as part of the nationwide Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), a flagship programme focused on upgrading railway infrastructure and improving passenger amenities.
The update was provided in a written reply in the Lok Sabha by Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday (March 11).
According to the government, the scheme has identified 1,337 railway stations across India for comprehensive redevelopment. While work has already been completed at 180 stations, construction and modernisation activities are underway at hundreds of other locations.
“The Ministry of Railways has launched the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme for the redevelopment of stations with a long-term approach. So far, 1,337 stations have been identified for development… and works have been completed at 180 stations,” Vaishnaw stated in Parliament.
Long term master plans for station development
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme focuses on preparing comprehensive master plans for railway stations and implementing them in phases. The aim is to transform stations into modern, accessible and passenger-friendly transport hubs.
Under the scheme, redevelopment plans include major upgrades to station infrastructure, circulation areas, and passenger facilities.
The station modernisation programme includes a wide range of improvements designed to enhance passenger convenience and urban connectivity. These include:
1. Improved access roads and circulating areas around stations
2. Better integration of railway stations with both sides of surrounding cities
3. Upgraded station buildings and architectural facades
4. Modern waiting halls, toilets, seating arrangements and drinking water facilities
5. Construction of wider foot over bridges and air concourses based on passenger traffic
6. Installation of lifts, escalators and ramps to improve accessibility
7. Improved platform surfaces and platform covers
8. Dedicated kiosks for local products under the One Station One Product initiative
9. Development of parking areas and multimodal transport integration
10. Special amenities for Divyangjan passengers
11. Advanced passenger information systems
12. Creation of executive lounges and business meeting spaces
13. Landscaping and beautification of station premises
The scheme also emphasises environmentally sustainable infrastructure, including eco-friendly design elements and the possibility of installing ballastless tracks where necessary.
In the long term, the redevelopment plan aims to transform several railway stations into urban city centres, combining transport connectivity with commercial, social and public spaces.
With hundreds of projects currently underway, the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is expected to significantly reshape India’s railway network and improve travel experience for millions of passengers.
