Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to initiate the commencement of the redevelopment of 553 railway stations under the Amrit Bharat initiative, aimed at enhancing facilities by introducing rooftop plazas and city centers within stations.
Additionally, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for approximately 1,500 road overbridges and underbridges across various states during a virtual event spanning over 2,000 railway stations and other designated sites, as confirmed by officials.
The Prime Minister will participate in the event through video conferencing. Furthermore, Modi will officially inaugurate the Gomti Nagar station in Uttar Pradesh, which has undergone redevelopment at an estimated cost of Rs 385 crore, according to official sources.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s office elaborated on the enhancements made to the Gomti Nagar station, emphasizing its upgraded facilities to accommodate future passenger influx. The station features segregated arrival and departure facilities, integrating both sides of the city. It is equipped with modern amenities such as an air concourse, congestion-free circulation, food courts, and substantial parking space in upper and lower basements.
The Amrit Bharat stations, spanning across 27 states and Union Territories, will undergo redevelopment with a budget exceeding Rs 19,000 crores. These stations will serve as ‘city centers,’ seamlessly connecting both sides of a city and offering modern passenger amenities like roof plazas, scenic landscaping, inter-modal connectivity, contemporary architecture, children’s play areas, kiosks, and food courts.
Moreover, the redesigned stations will prioritize environmental sustainability and accessibility for the differently-abled. Their architectural design will draw inspiration from local culture, heritage, and aesthetics.
The Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone, inaugurate, and dedicate approximately 1,500 overbridges and underpasses, spread across 24 states and Union Territories. These infrastructure projects, totaling around Rs 21,520 crores, aim to alleviate congestion, enhance safety and connectivity, and bolster the capacity and efficiency of rail travel.