Nagpur is set to mark a significant milestone in rail infrastructure development as the newly upgraded Itwari railway station, renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Itwari Junction, will be virtually inaugurated on May 22.
The station’s redevelopment is part of a larger national initiative under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, which seeks to modernise 103 railway stations across the country. The Prime Minister will lead the inauguration through video conferencing. Among the five South East Central Railway (SECR) stations in the Nagpur division receiving a facelift, Itwari Junction stands out for its integrated approach that combines advanced infrastructure with cultural identity. The redevelopment, completed at a cost of ₹12.39 crore, transforms Itwari into a modern passenger hub while preserving and celebrating the region’s heritage.
Previously burdened by inadequate traffic flow and unstructured parking, the station now boasts enhanced entry and exit points, organised vehicle lanes, a dedicated two-wheeler parking area, and a traffic regulation system. These upgrades are designed to streamline passenger movement and reduce congestion, offering both functionality and safety. Passengers arriving at the station will now experience a suite of modern conveniences including digital ticketing counters, revamped waiting rooms, and purpose-built facilities for differently-abled individuals. A Jan Aushadhi centre offering affordable generic medicines and a railway coach restaurant have also been added to enhance commuter welfare.
Beyond functionality, the redevelopment also delivers a visual and cultural impact. The station façade merges traditional Indian motifs with contemporary architectural elements. Interiors feature Gond-style wall paintings, thread-based artwork, and handloom displays — all drawn from Nagpur’s rich artisanal legacy. Special features such as a mosaic tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and art installations referencing Nagpur’s famed oranges add a localised flavour to the aesthetic design. SECR officials noted that the station’s transformation represents a commitment to not just infrastructure enhancement, but also to sustainable and inclusive development. In alignment with the government’s broader objective of creating eco-friendly and accessible urban transport spaces, the station includes a new toilet complex inspired by contemporary designs from Bhubaneswar, promoting cleanliness and user-friendly services.
Other stations included in the SECR’s redevelopment programme are Daswani, Dongargarh, Chanda Fort, and Amgaon — all of which will also be inaugurated alongside Itwari Junction. These projects are expected to collectively uplift passenger experience in the region and contribute to the overall modernisation of India’s railway backbone. The overhaul of Itwari Junction is a powerful example of how infrastructure development can blend utility with local culture. It reflects the growing understanding that railway stations are not just transit points, but also gateways into the cities they serve. By weaving in local heritage, the station redevelopment showcases how transport architecture can foster both progress and pride in identity.
As Nagpur prepares for this symbolic reopening, Itwari Junction stands as a testament to how urban design, cultural heritage, and public convenience can be harmonised in the spirit of sustainable and inclusive development.
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