The Ministry of Railways has formulated a new policy for modernisation of stations named the “Amrit Bharat Station” scheme.

The scheme envisages the development of stations on a continuous basis with a long-term vision. It is based on master planning for long-term and implementation of the elements of the master plan as per the needs and patronage of the station.

The scheme aims at the preparation of master plans of the railway stations and the implementation of the master plan in phases to enhance the facilities including and beyond the Minimum Essential Amenities (MEA) and aiming for the creation of Roof Plazas and city centres at the station in long-run.

The scheme shall aim to meet the needs of the stakeholders, and station usage studies as far as possible based on the availability of funds and inter-se priority. It shall cater for the introduction of new amenities as well as the upgradation and replacement of existing amenities.

This scheme will also cover the stations where detailed techno-economic feasibility studies have been conducted or are being conducted but the work for construction of Roof Plazas has not been taken up yet, ensuring the phasing of the master plan being suitably implemented and relocation of structures and utilities being given more emphasis in the phasing plans.

To meet the above objectives, the following broad scope of work is envisaged for stations selected under the scheme:

–The master plans to have elementary details of the most appropriate location of Roof Plaza to be created in the future;

–Existing building usage shall be reviewed and space should be released in favour of passengers near the station entrances and the Railway offices should be suitably relocated;

–Attempts shall be made to club different grades/types of waiting halls and provide good cafeteria/retail facilities as far as possible. Suitable low-level partitions may be done in waiting halls;

–Provision for a minimum of two stalls for One Station One Product shall be made;

–Space shall also be created for Executive Lounges and places for small business meetings;

–At least one aesthetically designed hoarding(signage) on each side of the circulating area at a prominent location shall be erected for the display of important information etc. The size of such hoarding shall not be less than 10mx20m; and

–Station approaches would be improved to ensure smooth access by widening roads, removal of unwanted structures, properly designed signages, dedicated pedestrian pathways, well-planned parking areas, improved lighting, etc. Necessary liaison should be established with local authorities for necessary improvements to be carried out by the local authorities in their areas.