Indian Railways Expands Modernisation Under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

Indian Railways Accelerates Station Modernisation Through Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

The Ministry of Railways is advancing a major long-term modernisation drive through the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) , aimed at transforming railway stations into efficient, accessible and integrated urban hubs. The scheme follows a phased master-planning approach , ensuring structured development aligned with future passenger needs.

Core Features of the Redevelopment Framework

The redevelopment blueprint includes upgraded access roads , redesigned circulating areas and connectivity to both sides of cities, enabling seamless movement. Passenger-focused improvements feature enhanced waiting halls, toilets, platform surfaces , and modern structures such as foot overbridges (FOBs) and air concourses . Stations are being equipped with lifts, escalators and ramps , dedicated facilities for Divyangjans , and kiosks under the ‘One Station One Product’ (OSOP) initiative. Provisions for multimodal integration and expanded parking ensure that stations evolve into well-connected mobility centres.

Progress and Funding Status

So far, 1,337 stations have been identified under ABSS, with redevelopment works completed at 155 locations . Funding flows through Plan Head-53: Customer Amenities , with ₹12,118 crore allocated for 2025–26 and ₹7,253 crore utilised up to October 2025. While most works rely on budgetary support, 15 stations are being assessed for development under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Challenges and Heritage Safeguards

Railway redevelopment involves statutory approvals across fire safety , heritage conservation , environmental permissions and airport-related clearances. Brownfield constraints—such as shifting utilities and ensuring uninterrupted train operations—often influence project timelines. For heritage stations, customised conservation measures are integrated into design and execution.

Long-Term Vision for Modern Rail Infrastructure

Aligned with Indian Railways’ broader technological upgrades, the scheme promotes sustainable solutions such as ballastless tracks and aims to create city-centre zones around major stations. The initiative seeks to enhance passenger convenience, safety, accessibility and local economic growth, while recognising that modernisation is a continuous process driven by priorities and available funding.

Exam Point

• 1,337 stations identified; 155 redeveloped so far.

• ₹12,118 crore allocated for 2025–26; ₹7,253 crore spent till Oct 2025.

• 15 stations under consideration for PPP-based redevelopment.

• Key features: FOBs/air concourses, Divyangjan amenities, multimodal integration, OSOP kiosks .