What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme?

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) is a flagship railway station redevelopment programme launched by the Ministry of Railways in December 2022. It aims to redevelop 1,309 railway stations across India into modern, integrated, and passenger-friendly transport hubs.

Key Objectives

  • Transform railway stations from transit points to vibrant city centres
  • Improve passenger experience and convenience
  • Promote local economies through One Station One Product initiative
  • Preserve regional identity and heritage architecture
  • Create future-ready multimodal transport infrastructure

Key Features of the Scheme

1. Customised & Culturally Integrated Redevelopment

  • Location-specific designs combining modern facilities with local heritage
  • Integration of regional architecture, culture, and architectural themes
  • Aesthetically designed façades reflecting local identity

2. Passenger Amenities & Modern Facilities

  • Improved entry and exit points
  • Modern waiting areas and covered platforms
  • Clean restrooms, lifts, and escalators
  • Free Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Executive lounges and business areas
  • Food courts and kiosks
  • Enhanced passenger information systems
  • Improved lighting, landscaping, and parking facilities
  • Roof plazas for passenger convenience

3. Inclusive & Accessible Design

  • Aligned with Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan)
  • Facilities for Divyangjan and passengers with reduced mobility:
  • Ramps and accessible parking
  • Low-height counters
  • Braille signage
  • Tactile pathways
  • Accessible toilets
  • Lift-equipped subways and foot overbridges

4. Local Economic Promotion (One Station One Product)

  • Promotes indigenous and regional products
  • Provides kiosks and outlets for:
  • Local artisans and weavers
  • Tribal communities
  • Handicrafts and handlooms
  • Region-specific food products

5. Urban Connectivity & Sustainability

  • Develops stations as multimodal urban centres
  • Integrates railways with bus and metro networks
  • Connects both sides of cities through improved planning
  • Incorporates eco-friendly measures:
  • Green spaces
  • Sustainable infrastructure
  • Improved environmental planning

Recent Developments

  • Second major nationwide dedication: 75 redeveloped stations inaugurated across 20 states
  • First dedication (May 22, 2025): 103 redeveloped stations across 18 states and Union Territories
  • Cost: 75 stations redeveloped at approximately ₹1,570 crore

Significance for India

  1. Infrastructure Modernization: Upgrading aging railway infrastructure to international standards
  2. Passenger Experience: Transforming travel experience with world-class amenities
  3. Economic Boost: Supporting local artisans and small businesses through dedicated outlets
  4. Accessibility: Ensuring equal access for differently-abled passengers
  5. Urban Development: Creating integrated urban transport hubs
  6. Heritage Preservation: Maintaining regional architectural identity

Constitutional/Policy References

  • Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan): Ensures accessibility for persons with disabilities
  • Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016: Mandates barrier-free access to public infrastructure