Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate 103 redeveloped railway stations across India under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme on May 22, including Deshnoke station in Bikaner, located near the Pakistan border. The ambitious project, launched in 2022, aims to modernize 1,337 stations into urban hubs with airport-like facilities while reflecting local art and heritage.
The 103 stations span 19 states, including Uttar Pradesh (19), Gujarat (18), Maharashtra (15), Rajasthan (8), Tamil Nadu (9), and others. Notable redeveloped stations include Saharanpur (UP), Begumpet (Telangana), Srirangam (TN), and Dakor (Gujarat). These medium-sized stations have been transformed at costs ranging from Rs five to Rs 30 crore each.
Stations now feature modern amenities such as escalators, executive lounges, improved passenger information systems, free Wi-Fi, and larger waiting areas. The designs incorporate regional culture and heritage.
The overall scheme is estimated at Rs one lakh crore. Most stations are being redeveloped via the EPC model, though 20 key projects use the PPP model. So far, approx. Rs 8,000 crore has been spent, with ?12,000 crore allocated for FY 2025-26. Major upgrades are being monitored under PM Gati Shakti.