Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards transforming railway infrastructure and enhancing passenger convenience, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated 75 redeveloped railway stations across the country under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS).
Among them, seven redeveloped railway stations in Odisha i.e. Balangir, Barpali, Paralakhemundi, Talcher, Kesinga, Baripada and Bimalgarh have been dedicated to the nation following their comprehensive modernization.
Redeveloped at a cumulative cost of approximately ₹109 crore, these stations reflect the Government of India’s vision of developing modern, passenger centric railway stations while preserving the cultural identity and architectural heritage of their respective regions.
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme envisages the holistic redevelopment of railway stations with improved passenger amenities, including modern station buildings, better circulating areas, upgraded waiting halls, modern toilets, enhanced platform shelters, digital passenger information systems, improved lighting, standardized signage and multimodal integration.
Based on operational requirements and station specific needs, facilities such as 12 metre wide Foot Over Bridges (FOBs) with lift provisions have also been provided at suitable stations to ensure barrier free accessibility. The station buildings also incorporate local art, culture and architectural elements, reflecting the unique heritage of their respective regions.
The redeveloped stations are expected to significantly enhance passenger convenience, strengthen regional connectivity and promote tourism, trade and local economic development, reaffirming Indian Railways’ commitment to creating world class railway infrastructure in line with the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
