India’s vast railway network, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the redeveloped Mandi Dabwali Railway Station on Thursday, as part of the ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
This significant event, originating from Bikaner, Rajasthan, saw the Prime Minister dedicate a total of 103 redeveloped railway stations to the nation. The transformation of Mandi Dabwali station, undertaken with an investment of approximately Rs 13 crore, underscores a national commitment to upgrading vital infrastructure, fostering enhanced connectivity, and bolstering regional economic growth, all while progressing towards more sustainable and efficient transport hubs. Haryana Governor Shri Bandaru Dattatraya presided over the on-ground ceremony as the Chief Guest, conducting a thorough inspection of the redeveloped station premises. His interaction with staff and passengers at the ticket counter and enquiry centre, alongside the honouring of freedom fighters’ families, highlighted the human-centric approach behind these infrastructure projects. Governor Dattatraya emphasised the expansive scope of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, under which 1,309 railway stations across India are undergoing redevelopment, with 103 now successfully completed. He eloquently described Indian Railways as the “lifeline of the nation,” capable of transporting millions daily across vast distances, a testament to its pivotal role in national integration and mobility.
Acknowledging India’s burgeoning population and the imperative to align with global infrastructure standards, the Governor underscored that the redevelopment of railway stations is not merely desirable but an urgent necessity. He further detailed that within the Bikaner Division of the North Western Railway alone, 77 stations are being redeveloped at a colossal cost of nearly Rs 4,000 crore. Mandi Dabwali, strategically located on the Haryana-Punjab border, holds deep cultural and historical significance, making its modernisation particularly impactful for a region known as a cultural confluence. The enhanced connectivity provided by such upgrades is crucial for equitable regional development and supporting local economies. The redeveloped Mandi Dabwali station now boasts a suite of modern amenities designed to significantly enhance passenger convenience and accessibility. These include a new, efficiently designed ticket counter, a spacious and comfortable waiting hall, and specialised facilities for differently-abled passengers, ensuring inclusivity for all travellers. The installation of clean water booths, improved signage for easier navigation, and real-time coach indication boards promise a more streamlined and comfortable journey experience. Furthermore, a new foot over-bridge has been integrated to ensure smoother pedestrian flow and enhanced safety across platforms.
Beyond the station building itself, considerable enhancements have been made to the circulating area, arrival-departure management, and parking facilities, aiming to create a more organised and less congested environment around the station. Governor Dattatraya passionately articulated his belief that Indian Railways truly symbolises national unity, effortlessly connecting East to West and North to South. He extended a heartfelt appeal to every family to embark on at least one railway journey annually, encouraging them to explore India’s rich historical and religious sites, thereby fostering national cohesion and cultural appreciation through travel.b The Governor also commended Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini for his unwavering commitment to prioritising infrastructure development, particularly within the rail sector. He stressed that such improved infrastructure inevitably leads to job creation, stimulates economic prosperity, and generates fresh employment opportunities, thereby accelerating the state’s overall development trajectory. The inauguration of these 103 redeveloped stations, he asserted, marks a “historic milestone,” promising not only enhanced passenger convenience but also a significant boost to tourism, employment, and regional development.
The Mandi Dabwali Railway Station, now standing as a beacon of modernity and efficiency, is poised to set new standards in passenger services and regional connectivity.
Also Read: Mumbai rail block slows trains on May 24 and 25
