The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme was launched to modernise and redevelop 1,309 stations across the country.
Published Aug 05, 2023 | 4:45 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 05, 2023 | 4:45 PM
₹5000 crores released by centre to revamp Punjab railway stations. (iStock)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 508 railway stations, including 22 in Punjab, on Sunday, 6 August via video conferencing. The Union government has allocated over ₹5,000 crore for the re-development of railway stations in Punjab and Chandigarh.
According to Punjab Governor Banwari Pal Purohit, allocation will have a transformative impact on the railway infrastructure of Punjab and Chandigarh, thereby elevating significantly the amenities at these stations and facilitating improved facilities for passengers and travellers.
As per the plan ₹4,762 crore will be allocated for 22 railway stations in Punjab and ₹ 436 crore for Chandigarh. Ludhiana Junction has received a maximum allocation of ₹460 crore.
“Chandigarh already represents an important economic hub in the region and re-development of its railway station will improve the overall efficiency of economic operations and passenger traffic in a big measure,” the Governor said in a letter sent to the prime minister.
“The fact that the prime minister will personally inaugurate both the projects online fills the people of Punjab with immense pride and privilege,” he added.
Local products of Punjab are being given importance at the outlets under “One Station, One Product”. According to officials, at these outlets, travellers can buy products from local artisans, weavers and craftsmen at affordable prices.
It may be noted that the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme was launched to redevelop 1,309 stations across the country, with 508 stations being redeveloped at a cost of more than ₹24,470 crore in the first phase.
The redevelopment will provide modern passenger amenities along with ensuring well-designed traffic circulation, inter-modal integration, and well-designed signage for the guidance of passengers.
The design of the station buildings will be inspired by local culture, heritage and architecture.
