Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 553 railway stations under the Amrit Bharat scheme on Monday (February 26), focusing on enhancing facilities through rooftop plazas and city centers at these stations.
The event, which will was conducted virtually across more than 2,000 railway stations and function sites, also witnessed the inauguration of nearly 1,500 road overbridges and underbridges in various states.
“Today, the foundation stone of more than 2,000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start from June but the scale and speed with which work has been started is surprising everyone..,” says PM Modi at the event.
Inauguration of redeveloped Gomti Nagar station
The prime minister also inaugurated the redeveloped Gomti Nagar station in Uttar Pradesh at a cost of approximately Rs 385 crores.
The redesigned station addresses future passenger footfall with segregated arrival and departure facilities, central air-conditioning, modern amenities, and ample parking space in upper and lower basements.
Amrit Bharat Railway stations
The Amrit Bharat stations, spanning 27 states and Union Territories, are set for redevelopment at a cost exceeding Rs 19,000 crores. Positioned as ‘city centres,’ these stations will integrate both sides of a city, featuring modern passenger amenities such as roof plazas, landscaping, inter-modal connectivity, a contemporary facade, kids’ play areas, kiosks, and food courts.
The redevelopment will prioritise environmental and Divyang-friendly aspects, drawing design inspiration from local culture, heritage, and architecture.
PM Modi also laid the foundation stone, inaugurate, and dedicate 1,500 overbridges and underpasses spread across 24 states and Union Territories. These projects, amounting to approximately Rs 21,520 crores, aim to alleviate congestion, enhance safety and connectivity, and improve rail travel capacity and efficiency.