The railway infrastructure of Northern Railway has received approval for a master plan aimed at upgrading 104 stations under the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Railway’ initiative. This ambitious project aligns with the government’s Amrit Bharat Scheme, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which seeks to modernise railway stations across the Northern Railway zone. The overarching goal is to ensure a clean, comfortable, and contemporary travel experience for passengers.
Currently, 104 stations have received the green light for redevelopment, with 16 earmarked for major upgrades in the initial phase. Feasibility studies are underway for an additional 21 stations, reflecting a strategic approach to enhancing service quality. For the fiscal year 2024-25, the budget allocated for this comprehensive redevelopment stands at ₹1,538 crore, showcasing the government’s commitment to revitalising railway infrastructure. The upgrades span Northern Railway’s five divisions—Delhi, Ambala, Firozpur, Moradabad, and Lucknow—covering six states and two Union Territories. Key urban hubs such as Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Ambala are prioritised, while smaller towns in Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, including Rohtak and Saharanpur, will also benefit from improved facilities. Notably, significant pilgrimage and tourist destinations like Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Shimla are included in the upgrade plan, indicating a broader vision for tourism enhancement.
The revamped stations will feature modern amenities such as new entry gates, foot overbridges (FOBs), lifts, and escalators, ensuring accessibility for all passengers, including those with disabilities. The General Manager of Northern Railway emphasised that these upgrades will not only enhance passenger experiences but will also reflect the local culture and ethos, integrating commercial spaces such as offices, food courts, and shopping complexes within station premises. From a sustainability perspective, these upgrades aim to create energy-efficient stations that promote multimodal transport options, aligning with global best practices in environmentally responsible infrastructure. As the public becomes increasingly aware of the environmental impact of transport systems, this initiative is expected to resonate positively with citizens who seek a modern and sustainable travel experience.
Community sentiment appears optimistic, with many expressing excitement about the potential improvements. Passengers are hopeful that these upgrades will alleviate congestion, enhance safety, and provide a more pleasant travel environment. The anticipated transformation of railway stations is not merely a logistical enhancement; it is a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and efficient transport network that caters to the needs of all citizens.
