As many as three railway stations in Jammu and Kashmir are among more than 500 railway stations across the country that are set to be revamped under the Centre’s “Amrit Bharat Station Scheme”.
The scheme is envisaged to provide modern facilities to commuters at these railway stations, which includes Udhampur, Jammu and Budgam stations in J&K.
A Northern Railways official told Rising Kashmir that Prime Minister NarendraModi will virtually lay the foundation for Rs 20,000 crore worth redevelopment project.
He said the redeveloped railway stations will get state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple entrance gates, well-designed platforms, escalators, lifts, and dedicated amenities for specially-abled persons. Of the 1,309 railway stations identified under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, the foundation stones will be laid for the redevelopment of over 500 stations. Launched in December 2022, the scheme aims to prepare a masterplan for railway stations and implement it in a phased manner to enhance facilities.
“These stations will be seamlessly connected with a vast network covering most states and Union Territories. Additionally, passengers will have access to an array of conveniences, such as restaurants, cyber cafes, and Wi-Fi services,” he said. Moreover, there will be dedicated help centres catering to the needs of senior citizens, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience for everyone,” the spokesman said.
He said the redevelopment includes enhancing station access, circulating areas, waiting halls, toilets, lift and escalators, cleanliness, free Wi-Fi, and kiosks for local products under the “one station, one product” scheme. Multi-modal integration and eco-friendly solutions are also a part of the plan.
When contacted, Chief Area Manager (CAM), Northern Railways (Kashmir), SaqibYousufYatoo told Rising Kashmir that three stations in J&K have been identified for modernisation by the Railways. “In Kashmir, Budgam railway station has been identified for the upgradation and similarly Jammu Tawi and Udhampur stations in Jammu region will get a facelift,” he said.
