Navigating Complexities: Revamping India's Rail Stations On-the-Move

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw discussed the complexities of redeveloping railway stations without halting rail traffic, as common practice in other countries. India, where millions rely on trains daily, launched the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The initiative involves phased master plans to upgrade stations with 1,337 targeted, and 155 completed.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has described the redevelopment of railway stations without interrupting rail traffic as a 'complex task.'

During a Question Hour session, the minister highlighted that while many countries pause rail services for years during redevelopment, India's vast dependence on railways renders such halts impracticable. The country sees 7.5 crore daily train travelers, amplifying this challenge.

To address these needs, the Ministry of Railways has rolled out the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. This initiative employs a phased approach, developing master plans designed for station upgrades. To date, 1,337 stations are slated for redevelopment, with 155 projects successfully concluded thus far.

(With inputs from agencies.)