Bhubaneswar: Barpali Railway Station in Baragada district will be among the 75 redeveloped railway stations across the country that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate to the nation on July 17 under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
Redeveloped at an estimated cost of Rs 22 crore, the station has been upgraded with modern passenger amenities while showcasing the rich cultural heritage of western Odisha.
The redevelopment is part of Indian Railways’ nationwide initiative to transform railway stations into modern, accessible and passenger-friendly transport hubs with improved infrastructure and facilities. Railway officials said the revamped station is expected to significantly enhance passenger convenience, strengthen regional connectivity and support the socio-economic development of the region.
The upgraded station features an expanded station building with a new entrance portico, a spacious circulating area and improved passenger access. A 12-metre-wide Foot Over Bridge (FOB), equipped with ramps, has been constructed to ensure safe and barrier-free movement, particularly for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Passenger facilities have also been enhanced with widened approach roads, additional platform shelters, resurfaced platforms, modern waiting halls, upgraded toilets, and improved passenger information and wayfinding systems.
One of the highlights of the redevelopment is the incorporation of western Odisha’s cultural identity into the station’s design. The architectural façade and interiors draw inspiration from the internationally acclaimed Barpali Ikat handloom tradition, while artistic motifs depicting the famous Dalkhai folk dance and other traditional art forms lend the station a distinct local character.
The redevelopment is expected to improve rail connectivity for agriculture, trade, commerce, tourism and local industries in western Odisha. Better railway infrastructure is also likely to benefit farmers, handloom weavers, artisans, traders and small entrepreneurs by providing improved access to markets and services.
The redevelopment of Barpali Railway Station forms part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, under which Indian Railways is modernising stations across the country by upgrading passenger amenities, improving accessibility and integrating regional architectural themes into station infrastructure.
The dedication of the redeveloped station on July 17 will mark another milestone in Indian Railways’ efforts to modernise railway infrastructure while preserving local heritage and creating safer, smarter and more convenient travel facilities for passengers.
