Station domination: UP, Maharashtra, Bengal take lead in India's Railway renaissance

Indian Railways is embarking on an ambitious Rs 12,000 crore project to transform railway stations into modern city centers, complete with airport-like amenities and local cultural touches. This initiative aims to enhance passenger experience, boost economic growth, and create employment opportunities, marking a new era for railway infrastructure in India.

A Global Benchmark for Infrastructure Development

The Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated over ₹12,000 crore to revamp railway stations across the country into city centers. Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Minister for Railways, stated that this "station redevelopment programme sets a global benchmark for infrastructure development". The goal is to integrate development with heritage and sustainability, creating world-class infrastructure that benefits passengers, urban landscapes, and the nation’s economy.

Airport-Like Amenities and Local Flair

The project envisions airport-like facilities such as executive lounges and business centers, food plazas and retail shops, and free WiFi at select railway stations. Each station will also incorporate local art and culture to give it a unique identity. For example, the redeveloped Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station features a temple-like façade and depictions from the Ramayana.

Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

Of the 1,337 stations identified for a makeover, Uttar Pradesh has the most (157), followed by Maharashtra (132) and West Bengal (101). The Amrit Bharat station scheme is designed to avoid bottlenecks by incorporating views from all stakeholders and providing training to around 20,000 engineers. Funds for the scheme are earmarked under Customer Amenities in the Budget.

Completed Projects and Future Plans

Work is finished on six stations, including Madhya Pradesh’s Rani Kamlapati Station, Gujarat’s Gandhinagar Capital Station, and Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya Dham Railway Station9. While most stations are being redeveloped through the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model, 20 projects are being implemented in a Public Private Partnership Mode.

Economic Multiplier Effect

The redevelopment of railway stations is expected to have a multiplier effect on the economy, helping to improve economic growth and create new jobs. This initiative not only enhances passenger experience but also contributes to the overall development of urban areas and boosts economic activity.