Amrit Bharat Station Scheme Redevelops 1338 Railway Stations

The Ministry of Railways is implementing the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme to modernise railway infrastructure across India with a long-term, phased approach. A total of 1338 stations have been identified for redevelopment, including 13 key stations in Delhi. The initiative aims to enhance passenger amenities, improve connectivity and transform stations into integrated urban hubs.

Coverage and Delhi Stations Identified

Under the scheme, 13 stations in Delhi have been selected for development. These include Adarsh Nagar Delhi, Anand Vihar, Bijwasan, Delhi Junction, Delhi Cantt, Delhi Sarai Rohilla, Delhi Shahdara, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Narela, New Delhi, Sabzi Mandi, Safdarjung and Tilak Bridge. These stations are being upgraded to meet growing passenger demands and improve travel experience.

Key Infrastructure Developments

Significant progress has been recorded at several stations. At Safdarjung, major structural works such as station buildings, telecom infrastructure and departure plaza canopy have been completed, with finishing works underway. Bijwasan has seen completion of structural components including station buildings and sewage treatment systems. At Delhi Cantt, construction of station buildings, elevated roads and residential quarters is progressing in phases. Similarly, stations like Narela, Sabzi Mandi and Tilak Bridge are undergoing upgrades in platforms, shelters, parking and passenger facilities.

Master Planning and Modernisation Features

The scheme focuses on comprehensive master planning tailored to each station’s requirements. Key features include improved station access, integration with surrounding city areas, enhanced waiting halls, modern toilets, lifts, escalators and wider foot overbridges. Additional provisions include kiosks under ‘One Station One Product’, better passenger information systems, executive lounges and multimodal transport integration. Sustainable solutions such as ballastless tracks and eco-friendly infrastructure are also incorporated.

Important Facts for Exams

• Amrit Bharat Station Scheme covers 1338 railway stations across India.
• 13 stations in Delhi are included under the scheme.
• Focus on phased redevelopment with master planning approach.
• Includes ‘One Station One Product’ initiative for local goods promotion.

Challenges and Implementation Approach

The redevelopment process is complex due to safety requirements, operational constraints and the need for multiple statutory clearances such as fire, heritage and environmental approvals. Challenges like shifting utilities, maintaining train operations and managing high-density areas affect timelines. As a result, the scheme follows a continuous and priority-based implementation strategy, without a fixed completion deadline.