Massive upgradation being executed without disrupting rail traffic, 155 stations already completed
VINOD BHAT
NEW DELHI, Dec 10: The Union Minister for Railways, Communications and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, on Wednesday said the countrywide redevelopment of railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is progressing at an accelerated pace, even as normal train operations continue without disruption. The Ministry of Railways has envisioned this ambitious programme as a long-term transformation plan aimed not merely at renovating stations but turning them into modern, passenger-friendly urban hubs.
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme involves detailed master planning for each location, which is then implemented in phased manner depending on feasibility and local requirements. According to the ministry, the objective is to create stations that offer easier access, better circulation areas and seamless connection with both sides of a city. The redevelopment includes major upgradation of station buildings, waiting halls, toilets and seating arrangements, along with wider foot-overbridges and air concourse structures that can accommodate rising footfalls. Lifts, escalators and ramps are being installed to ensure smooth transit for passengers, especially senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
One of the significant features of the scheme is the effort to improve platform infrastructure, including upgraded surfaces and enhanced roofing. Kiosks promoting local products under the ‘One Station One Product’ initiative are being incorporated, while attention is also being given to parking spaces, multimodal transport linkages, improved signage and more sophisticated information systems. In addition to these modern facilities, the scheme also provides for executive lounges, business meeting spaces and landscaped areas wherever they are considered essential for passenger comfort.
The redevelopment framework also stresses sustainability and the use of environment-friendly solutions. Where necessary, ballastless tracks are being laid, and the long-term vision includes the possibility of developing some large stations into vibrant city centres that integrate transport, commerce and public services.
So far, 1,337 stations have been identified for upgradation under the scheme and work has already been completed at 155 of them, indicating substantial progress on the ground. Selection of stations takes into account proposals received from various Zonal Railways and also prioritises locations situated in major cities, tourist belts and pilgrimage centres.
Most of the financial support comes from Plan Head-53, Customer Amenities. For the financial year 2025–26, the government has allocated ₹12,118 crore, out of which ₹7,253 crore has already been spent up to October 2025. Fifteen stations have additionally been identified for development through the Public-Private Partnership model, which the ministry believes will infuse modern design ideas and private investment into the redevelopment process.
The ongoing works mark one of the most extensive infrastructure enhancement programmes undertaken by Indian Railways, with the Ministry emphasising that the transformation is being carried out while maintaining full train services, ensuring minimum inconvenience to millions of passengers who use the network every day.
