Guwahati, 15 January (HS): Over the past decade, India’s rail landscape has undergone a decisive transformation, particularly in eastern India. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian Railways has emerged as one of the strongest drivers of infrastructure-led growth, overcoming long-standing geographical constraints, outdated infrastructure and uneven access to usher in an integrated, future-ready rail system.
Highlighting this shift, Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) Chief Public Relations Officer Kapinjal Kishore Sharma on Thursday said the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme lies at the heart of this transformation. The scheme is the world’s largest railway station redevelopment programme and marks the beginning of a new era in large-scale public infrastructure development.
More than a station modernisation drive, the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme represents a visionary reimagining of how railway infrastructure serves the nation. Over 1,300 stations across the country have been identified for redevelopment. The initiative reflects a leadership philosophy that prioritises outcomes over intent and infrastructure over inertia. The redevelopments go far beyond cosmetic upgrades, incorporating modern passenger amenities, facilities for persons with disabilities, improved circulation, upgraded waiting halls, digital information systems and architecture inspired by local heritage, ensuring stations become modern, accessible gateways rooted in regional identity.
Conceived as a comprehensive and future-ready initiative, the scheme embodies a people-centric approach to infrastructure. By transforming stations into vibrant public spaces and economic catalysts, it is expected to boost regional commerce while significantly enhancing the overall passenger experience.
West Bengal is rapidly emerging as a benchmark for passenger-focused rail modernisation. With major improvements in safety, accessibility and mobility, rail travel across the state is witnessing a visible transformation.
Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, 101 stations in West Bengal are being redeveloped with an investment of around ₹3,600 crore. These stations span major cities, border towns and pilgrimage centres, ensuring balanced and inclusive regional development.
Key stations such as Howrah, Sealdah, New Jalpaiguri, Kharagpur, Asansol, Bandel, Malda Town, Siliguri, Alipurduar, Shalimar and Santragachi are being upgraded under a unified modernisation vision. Large-scale redevelopment projects are further strengthening this momentum. New Jalpaiguri, with an approved cost of about ₹335 crore, is being transformed into a modern gateway to the Northeast with a new terminal, air concourse and enhanced passenger infrastructure. Santragachi, with an investment of nearly ₹380 crore, is emerging as a major multimodal hub designed to ease pressure on the Howrah–Kolkata corridor. Extensive upgrades are also underway at Asansol and Shalimar to strengthen long-distance connectivity and spur regional economic activity.
Passenger amenities have seen a significant boost, with Wi-Fi connectivity now available at 510 stations, installation of 250 lifts and commissioning of over 400 escalators, underscoring a strong focus on accessibility and operational efficiency.-----------
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
