Central Railway’s Transformation: CSMT, Nagpur, and 16 Other Stations Under Major Upgrade

Mumbai, 23rd October 2024: Indian Railways is undergoing a significant transformation with the redevelopment of railway stations on a massive scale to provide world-class facilities to passengers. Under the “Amrit Bharat Station Scheme” (ABSS), railway stations across the Central Railway network are being modernized to offer improved amenities and serve as regional growth centers. This initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to upgrade the country’s rail infrastructure.

The redevelopment efforts received a major boost when Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 76 railway stations under the ABSS in the Central Railway zone during two phases—August 2023 and February 2024. Construction and modernization work is in full swing at all 76 stations, with soft upgradation works already completed at seven of these locations. Additionally, three new stations—Jalgaon, Akalkot, and Panvel—were approved for redevelopment this year, with preliminary work now underway.

Major Redevelopment Projects in Progress

Three major railway stations are currently undergoing substantial redevelopment within the Central Railway network: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Nagpur, and Ajni. These stations are witnessing significant upgrades, with physical progress reported at 5%, 32%, and 32% respectively. Beyond these three key stations, Central Railway has identified 16 more stations for major upgradation. These stations include Dadar, Thane, Thakurli, Kalyan, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), Lonavala, Bhusaval, Akola, Amravati, Khandwa, Nasik Road, Wardha, Pune, Miraj, Shivaji Nagar, and Sai Nagar Shirdi. Detailed project reports (DPRs) and estimates for these stations are currently being developed.

Key Features of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

The ABSS was formulated by the Ministry of Railways to modernize railway stations and ensure their development with a long-term vision. The redevelopment is being carried out based on a master plan that addresses the growing demands of passengers while enhancing the overall appeal and functionality of stations.

Key highlights of the scheme include:
– Elegant Station Buildings: New, modern station buildings will feature attractive architectural designs to redefine the look and feel of these stations.
– Swachh Bharat Focus: Modular sewage treatment plants will be installed, supporting the Swachh Bharat mission and ensuring cleaner environments at stations.
– Aesthetic Platforms: Platforms will be resurfaced and landscaped to improve their aesthetic appeal.
– Improved Passenger Amenities: Enhanced seating, drinking water facilities, better lighting, and improved ventilation will be provided for travelers.
– Enhanced Connectivity: New foot overbridges, along with additional lifts and escalators, will ease passenger movement and accessibility.
– Modern Guidance and Information Systems: Updated train indication boards and passenger-friendly signage will be installed for easier navigation.
– Functional Upgrades: Existing booking offices and administrative buildings will undergo renovations to align with the scheme’s overall vision.
– Inclusivity: All developments will be made accessible for divyangjan (specially-abled individuals), ensuring equal convenience for all.
– One Station One Product Scheme: Stalls will be earmarked to promote local products under this initiative.
– City Center Development: Railway stations will be developed as ‘City Centres’ to facilitate economic growth.
– Well-Designed Traffic Circulation: Improved traffic circulation and integration with other modes of transport will be prioritized.

Mumbai Suburban Stations to Benefit from Station Improvement Work

In addition to the 79 stations identified under ABSS and the 19 stations earmarked for major upgrades, 10 Mumbai suburban stations are currently undergoing improvement works. These stations, including Ghatkopar, Bhandup, Mulund, Dombivali, Neral, and Kasara on the Main Line, and GTB Nagar, Mankhurd, Govandi, and Chembur on the Harbour Line, are being developed under the Station Improvement Work initiative led by Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC).

The modernization of these stations marks a significant step towards improving India’s railway infrastructure, enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers, and boosting the economy through better connectivity.