Amrit Bharat Station Scheme Accelerates Nationwide Redevelopment

The Ministry of Railways is pursuing large-scale modernisation through the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, a long-term initiative aimed at improving passenger experience and transforming stations into integrated urban centres. The scheme adopts phased master planning to ensure structured, sustainable development.

Core Features of Station Redevelopment

Master plans include improved access roads, circulating areas and integration with both sides of cities. Upgrades cover waiting halls, toilets, platform surfaces, foot overbridges or air concourses and amenities such as lifts, escalators and ramps. Provision for kiosks under ‘One Station One Product’, enhanced parking, multimodal integration and facilities for Divyangjans form key components.

Progress and Funding Status

A total of 1,337 stations have been selected so far, with redevelopment works completed at 155 locations. Funding is routed through Plan Head-53 ‘Customer Amenities’, with ₹12,118 crore allocated for 2025-26 and ₹7,253 crore spent up to October 2025. While works are primarily budget-supported, 15 stations are being explored for development under the PPP model.

Challenges and Heritage Considerations

Redevelopment requires statutory approvals relating to fire safety, heritage, environmental permissions and airport clearances. Brownfield complexities such as shifting utilities and maintaining safe train operations often influence timelines. Heritage structures are preserved through site-specific measures during planning and execution.

Exam Oriented Facts

• 1,337 stations identified under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme; 155 completed.
• ₹12,118 crore allocated for 2025-26 under Plan Head-53; ₹7,253 crore spent till October 2025.
• 15 stations identified for possible PPP-based development.
• Redevelopment includes FOBs/air concourses, Divyangjan facilities, multimodal integration and OSOP kiosks.

Long-Term Vision for Modern Rail Infrastructure

The scheme promotes sustainable solutions such as ballastless tracks and aims to create city-centre zones around major stations. Aligned with the wider technological upgrade of Indian Railways, the programme seeks to enhance safety, accessibility and economic opportunity while recognising that station modernisation is an ongoing process dependent on priorities and fund availability.