Amrit Bharat Station Scheme: A Leap Towards Modernization

Introduction to the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

The Ministry of Railways is embarking on a significant transformation through the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. This long-term initiative is designed to enhance passenger experience and convert railway stations into integrated urban centres.

Phased Master Planning for Sustainable Development

The scheme employs a phased master planning approach to guarantee structured and sustainable development. Core features of the station redevelopment master plans include:

• Improved access roads and circulating areas
• Integration with both sides of cities
• Upgraded waiting halls and toilets
• Enhanced platform surfaces and foot overbridges
• Additional amenities such as lifts, escalators, and ramps
• Provisions for kiosks under the 'One Station One Product' initiative
• Enhanced parking facilities
• multimodal integration and accessibility for Divyangjans

Progress and Funding Status

As of now, a total of 1,337 stations have been identified under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with redevelopment works completed at 155 locations. The funding is managed through Plan Head-53 'Customer Amenities', with ₹12,118 crore allocated for the financial year 2025-26 and ₹7,253 crore already spent by October 2025. In addition to budget-supported projects, 15 stations are being considered for development under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Challenges and heritage considerations

The redevelopment initiative faces several challenges, including the need for statutory approvals related to fire safety, heritage conservation, environmental permissions, and airport clearances. Brownfield complexities, such as relocating utilities and ensuring safe train operations, often affect project timelines. The preservation of heritage structures is also a critical aspect, with site-specific measures implemented during the planning and execution phases.

Exam-Oriented Facts

• 1,337 stations identified under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme; 155 stations have been completed.
• ₹12,118 crore allocated for 2025-26 under Plan Head-53; ₹7,253 crore spent till October 2025.
• 15 stations identified for potential PPP-based development.
• Redevelopment efforts include foot overbridges, Divyangjan facilities, multimodal integration, and OSOP kiosks.

Long-Term Vision for Modern Rail Infrastructure

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme promotes sustainable solutions, such as ballastless tracks, and aims to establish city-centre zones around major stations. This initiative is aligned with the broader technological upgrades within Indian Railways, seeking to enhance safety, accessibility, and economic opportunities. It is essential to recognize that station modernization is an ongoing process, contingent upon priorities and available funding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme?
Answer: The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is a long-term initiative by the Ministry of Railways aimed at modernizing railway stations to improve passenger experience and integrate them into urban centres.

Q2. How many stations are included under this scheme?
Answer: A total of 1,337 stations have been identified for redevelopment under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with 155 stations already completed.

Q3. What are the key features of the station redevelopment plans?
Answer: Key features include improved access roads, upgraded waiting areas, foot overbridges, lifts, and facilities for Divyangjans, as well as multimodal integration.

Q4. What is the funding status for the scheme?
Answer: ₹12,118 crore has been allocated for the financial year 2025-26, with ₹7,253 crore already spent by October 2025 on the redevelopment efforts.

Q5. What challenges does the scheme face?
Answer: Challenges include obtaining various statutory approvals, dealing with brownfield complexities, and ensuring the preservation of heritage structures during redevelopment.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary objective of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme?
A) To construct new railway lines
B) To modernize existing railway stations
C) To develop freight corridors
D) To privatize rail services
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: How many stations have completed redevelopment under the scheme?
A) 100
B) 155
C) 300
D) 1,000
Correct Answer: B