Prayagraj, 16 July (HS): Railway stations are no longer

viewed merely as places where trains arrive and depart. Today, they serve as

gateways to cities, reflecting their history, culture and aspirations while

offering a seamless travel experience. With this vision, the Amrit Bharat

Station Scheme is transforming railway stations across the country into modern,

accessible and passenger-friendly spaces that strengthen regional identity

alongside infrastructure development.

As part of this nationwide initiative, 1,305 railway

stations are being redeveloped in phases. On 17th July 2026, 75 redeveloped

stations will now be inaugurated, including eight stations of North Central

Railway. Together, they embody the spirit of Virasat Bhi, Vikas

Bhi, where heritage is preserved even as development moves forward. Located

on the vital Delhi-Howrah route, Fatehpur Railway Station has been redeveloped

at a cost of Rs. 33.10 crore. A modern station building, second entry, expanded

parking, a 12-metre-wide Foot Over Bridge and upgraded passenger amenities have

significantly enhanced convenience and safety for travellers.

For Panki Dham Railway Station, redevelopment strengthens

its role as both a religious and urban transport hub. Developed at a cost of Rs.

24.94 crore, the station now features wider platforms, modern waiting areas,

lifts, new Foot Over Bridges and improved passenger circulation, benefiting

pilgrims and daily commuters alike.

Serving as the gateway to the revered Maa Vindhyavasini

Temple, Vindhyachal Railway Station has been transformed with an investment of Rs.

23.24 crore. Modern facilities, accessible infrastructure and architecture

inspired by local traditions provide a more comfortable experience for the

thousands of devotees visiting the shrine.

In Rajasthan, Deeg Railway Station has received a new

identity through redevelopment worth Rs. 15.24 crore. Upgraded platforms, a

modern station building, improved parking, lifts and enhanced passenger

facilities complement the city's rich historical and tourism significance.

Redeveloped at a cost of Rs. 20.23 crore, Bhind Railway

Station now offers a contemporary façade, spacious waiting areas, a

12-metre-wide Foot Over Bridge and improved accessibility, creating a more

inclusive travel environment for the Chambal region.

Reflecting the legacy of Bundelkhand, Maharaja Chhatrasal

Station Chhatarpur has been modernised with an investment of Rs. 16.78 crore. A

new station building, lifts, improved circulation areas and regionally inspired

architecture have enhanced both its functionality and visual appeal.

Tikamgarh Railway Station, redeveloped at a cost of Rs. 16.77

crore, now features an upgraded façade, landscaped surroundings and improved

passenger amenities, offering a modern and welcoming travel experience. With an

investment of Rs. 11.74 crore, Harpalpur Railway Station has also been

transformed through a new station building, expanded platform shelters and

upgraded passenger facilities, reinforcing its importance as a key rail link in

Bundelkhand.

Together, these eight Amrit Stations represent a significant

milestone in the modernisation of North Central Railway. Beyond upgraded

infrastructure, they are improving connectivity, promoting tourism, supporting

local economies and creating railway stations that reflect the identity and

aspirations of the regions they proudly serve.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi