The 136 years old Bhilai railway station in Chhattisgarh has undergone a major renovation as part of the Modi government’s Amrit Bharat Station Yojna, an initiative aimed at modernizing railway infrastructure. Built in 1888 in Durg district, the station now boasts significant upgrades, enhancing passenger experience and accessibility.

The renovated Bhilai station now features several passenger-friendly enhancements, such as cleanliness improvements, air-conditioned and non-AC waiting halls, and improved lighting. The station’s ceiling has been raised, providing a more spacious feel, while covered sheds at new platforms offer shelter to passengers from the rain and sun. Additionally, the station has installed e-ATM machines for ticket purchases, along with upgraded train information displays.

A notable addition is a dummy engine placed outside the station, alongside a display detailing the station’s history and the renovations made since its establishment. This allows passengers to learn about the station’s historical significance.

Sanjeev Kumar, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) for Raipur, explained the improvements, saying, “Bhilai railway station now has two approaches for easier access, with proper parking arrangements in place. The entire station has been developed to enhance passenger experience, ensuring that visitors will appreciate the grandeur upon arrival.”

Railway employee Jageshwari Soni, who has worked at the station since 2017, spoke to ANI about the improvements, noting the station is now much better and cleaner, with more public activity. She added, “The station is cleaned twice a day, and the facilities, such as water and washrooms, are much improved.”

Passengers also praised the station’s transformation. Vikas Gupta commended the upgraded road to the station and the addition of four platforms, noting that more trains would be able to stop at the station. “From cleanliness to the ticket counter, everything is well-arranged,” he said. Keshav also appreciated the improvements, particularly the station’s cleanliness and the excellent staff. Girdhar remarked that the station’s upgrade had made a significant difference, enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Bhilai railway station’s renovation under the Amrit Bharat Station Yojna is part of a larger effort to modernize railway stations across India, improving infrastructure and enhancing accessibility for passengers.

(With ANI Inputs)