Elevating Gujarat’s railway stations to global standards: The ‘Amrit Bharat Station Yojana’ Initiative

The system of railways has significantly contributed to Gujarat’s progress and socio-economic development as it has not only fueled the state’s industrial fervor but also propelled development. In a remarkable stride towards transforming infrastructure, the ‘Amrit Bharat Station Yojana’ is transfiguring 21 railway stations in Gujarat into world-class hubs.

Aligned with the visionary aspirations of  PM Modi, this initiative by the Indian Railways holds a broader purpose—to reshape railway stations from mere service entities into invaluable assets. The goal is to enhance the travel experience for passengers, turning every journey into a comfortable, convenient, and delightful one.

At the heart of this endeavor lies the ‘Amrit Bharat Station Scheme,’ a far-sighted policy aimed at continually upgrading railway stations with modern facilities. The objective is to create a safe and comfortable travel environment by bolstering infrastructure, amenities, and services. Under this scheme, a remarkable transformation awaits the 1,309 railway stations across the country, with Western Railway overseeing 120 stations.

Of these, 87 stations fall within Gujarat’s jurisdiction, reflecting the state’s significant commitment to the program. Maharashtra houses 16 stations, Madhya Pradesh has 15, and Rajasthan boasts 2. This monumental project is guided by the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision, and on August 6, 2023, he laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 508 railway stations across the nation, including 21 in Gujarat.

Underpinning this grand transformation is an investment of approximately Rs. 846 crore, set to breathe new life into these 21 stations. The list of stations undergoing this metamorphosis includes Viramgam, Asarwa, Palanpur, Kalol Jn., New Bhuj, Bhachau, Patan, Himatnagar Jn., Dhrangadhra, Sanjan, Bharuch, Miyagam Karajan, Vishwamitri, Dabhoi, Derol, Pratapnagar, Savarkundla, Botad Jn., Keshod, Surendranagar, and Bhaktinagar.

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme does not stop at physical facelifts; it envisions these stations as vibrant ‘City Centers’ seamlessly integrated with the urban landscape. Mirroring India’s cultural diversity, these stations will house contemporary passenger facilities, upgraded features, and a novel design inspired by local culture, heritage, and architecture.

The transformation prioritizes passenger convenience, ensuring streamlined traffic circulation, better lighting, air concourses, waiting rooms, executive lounges, food courts, accessible parking spaces, senior citizen-friendly facilities, eco-friendly structures utilizing green energy, and more. Moreover, these stations will facilitate seamless multi-modal connectivity with other public transportation systems.

The new state-of-the-art station buildings will not only redefine travel but also become symbolic gateways for travelers, pilgrims, and tourists, leaving a lasting impression. This endeavor is poised to bolster Gujarat’s tourism industry, augment employment opportunities, and provide a welcoming airport-like environment for all those traversing its precincts.

With ‘Amrit Bharat Station Yojana,’ Gujarat’s railway stations are emerging as more than just points of transit; they are becoming symbols of progress, connecting the state to a brighter future for generations to come.