Jaipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday virtually inaugurated eight redeveloped railway stations in Rajasthan as part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, under which 75 railway stations across the country have been modernised to enhance passenger amenities while preserving regional architectural heritage.
The stations have been upgraded with modern facilities such as lifts, escalators, free Wi-Fi, executive lounges, improved waiting areas, digital passenger information systems, and infrastructure designed for persons with disabilities.
The redevelopment has been carried out under the theme of “Heritage as well as Development” (Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi), with station buildings incorporating local art, culture, and architectural elements.
The eight railway stations inaugurated in Rajasthan are Jaisalmer, Barmer, Dausa, Khairthal, Gotan, Somesar, Deeg and Gangapur City.
Of the eight stations, six fall under the jurisdiction of the North Western Railway (NWR), which has described them as the region’s new generation of “Amrit Stations”.
Among them, Jaisalmer Railway Station is the largest redevelopment project in the state, completed at an estimated cost of Rs 140 crore.
Designed to reflect the architecture of the historic Sonar Fort, the station now features heritage-inspired façades, 10 lifts, and 10 escalators.
Other redeveloped stations include Gotan developed at cost of Rs 20.14 crore, Barmer for Rs 18 crore, Dausa for Rs 15 crore, Somesar for Rs 13 crore and Khairthal for Rs 12.79 crore. Deeg and Gangapur City, though located in Rajasthan, are administered by other railway zones.
At Dausa Railway Station, redevelopment works worth around Rs 15 crore have added a new waiting hall, upgraded lighting, digital coach guidance systems, improved parking facilities, and barrier-free access through ramps and dedicated pathways for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
The station also features murals and artwork showcasing Rajasthan’s cultural heritage.
A public programme was organised at the station to mark the inauguration, where local public representatives, railway officials, passengers, and school students gathered to watch Prime Minister Modi’s virtual address.
The redevelopment is part of the Centre’s nationwide initiative to transform railway stations into modern, passenger-friendly transport hubs while retaining their local identity.
(IANS)
