Surat : Several railway stations in Surat district are set for a significant upgrade as part of the Indian Railways' ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The project aims to transform major stations across the country into "New Stations of New India" and was launched virtually in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Governor Acharya Devvrat graced the ceremony held in Bhestan, Surat, marking the finalization of redevelopment works for seven stations in the district. These stations include Sachin, Bhestan, Bardoli, Utran, Sion, Kim, and Kosamba.
Envisioning a Modernized Railway Network:
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme seeks to create a network of "Amrit Stations" with enhanced infrastructure, improved facilities, and a focus on passenger comfort. The initiative aims to provide a safe, comfortable, and modern travel experience for passengers.
National Scope, Local Impact:
Across the country, 1309 railway stations have been identified for upgradation under this scheme, including 122 stations under Western Railways. Notably, 16 stations are in Maharashtra, 89 in Gujarat, 15 in Madhya Pradesh, and 2 in Rajasthan.
Surat's Stations on the Revamp Map:
The virtual launch ceremony included the announcement of the redevelopment of 66 stations across six divisions of Western Railway at a cost of Rs 4886 crore. This includes 46 stations in Gujarat, with Surat receiving a major boost as seven of its stations, namely Sachin, Bhestan, Bardoli, Utran, Sion, Kim, and Kosamba, are slated for improvement.
Upgrading the Experience:
The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme envisions a holistic transformation of stations. This includes improvements to station buildings, better connectivity within cities, integration with other modes of transportation, facilities for differently-abled passengers and senior citizens, and eco-friendly solutions.
Passengers can look forward to spacious rooftop plazas, consolidated passenger amenities like retail spaces, cafeterias, entertainment facilities, free Wi-Fi, and kiosks promoting local products through initiatives like "One Station One Product." This comprehensive revamp promises a significantly enhanced travel experience for passengers in Surat and beyond.
