Indian Railways’ Amrit Bharat Station Scheme in Karnataka

The Indian Railways has launched an ambitious initiative to redevelop 61 railway stations in Karnataka under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. This scheme aims to modernise and upgrade the infrastructure of railway stations that have not seen redevelopment for years. The initiative is designed to enhance passenger experience and improve station facilities .

What is Amrit Bharat Station Scheme?

• The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme focuses on long-term development.
• It involves creating master plans for station upgrades and implementing these plans in phases.
• Key features include improved access, waiting areas, clean toilets, lifts, escalators, and free Wi-Fi.
• The scheme also promotes local products through the ‘One Station One Product’ initiative and aims to provide better passenger information systems.

Structural Improvements

The scheme prioritises structural enhancements. This includes upgrading station buildings, ensuring seamless integration with urban areas, and providing multimodal transport options. Facilities for Divyangjans (people with disabilities) will be improved. Sustainable and eco-friendly solutions are also a focus, including the introduction of ballastless tracks and the construction of roof plazas where needed.

Project Timeline and Challenges

The redevelopment of railway stations is complex. It requires ensuring passenger safety and obtaining various statutory clearances from local authorities. Due to these complexities, the Indian Railways has not specified a completion timeline for the project.

Specific Stations in Bengaluru Division

In the Bengaluru Division, 15 stations are earmarked for redevelopment. These include Bangarpet, Channapatna, and Whitefield, among others. Each station will receive specific upgrades tailored to its needs, enhancing overall service quality.

Funding and Financial Aspects

Funding for the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme comes from a specific allocation under Plan Head – 53 ‘Customer Amenities’. The financial details are managed on a zonal basis rather than state-wise. Karnataka falls under four railway zones – Central Railway, Southern Railway, South Central Railway, and South Western Railway. The total investment for enhancing railway infrastructure in Karnataka is estimated at ₹2,000 crore.

Future Prospects

The long-term vision includes transforming select railway stations into city centres. This will integrate them more closely with urban life, making them hubs of activity and convenience for passengers.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme on regional connectivity in Karnataka.
2. What are the key features of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme? How do they contribute to passenger convenience?
3. Estimate the financial implications of upgrading railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme in Karnataka.
4. Point out the challenges faced by the Indian Railways in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects like the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme on regional connectivity in Karnataka.

1. Improved infrastructure enhances accessibility to and from railway stations, boosting local economies.
2. Integration with multimodal transport options facilitates smoother transfers between different transport modes.
3. Upgraded stations can serve as hubs, promoting regional tourism and commerce.
4. Better amenities attract more passengers, increasing railway usage and connectivity.
5. Long-term vision of developing stations into city centres can further enhance urban connectivity.

2. What are the key features of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme? How do they contribute to passenger convenience?

1. Master plans for phased development ensure systematic upgrades tailored to each station’s needs.
2. Enhanced waiting areas, clean toilets, and free Wi-Fi improve overall passenger comfort and experience.
3. Facilities like lifts and escalators enhance accessibility for all, including Divyangjans.
4. Local product kiosks promote regional culture and provide convenience for passengers.
5. Improved passenger information systems ensure timely updates and better navigation within stations.

3. Estimate the financial implications of upgrading railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme in Karnataka.

1. Total investment for the scheme is estimated at ₹2,000 crore, indicating financial commitment.
2. Funding is allocated under Plan Head – 53 ‘Customer Amenities’, emphasizing passenger-focused improvements.
3. Investment in infrastructure can lead to increased revenue from ticket sales and local business support.
4. Long-term savings may arise from sustainable practices and reduced maintenance costs of upgraded facilities.
5. Potential for increased regional economic activity can further justify the financial outlay required for upgrades.

4. Point out the challenges faced by the Indian Railways in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects like the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

1. Complexities in ensuring passenger safety and compliance with statutory regulations can delay projects.
2. Obtaining clearances from various local and urban bodies adds to the timeline and complexity.
3. Funding allocation and management across multiple railway zones complicate financial oversight.
4. Resistance from local communities or stakeholders may arise during redevelopment efforts.
5. Logistical challenges in coordinating construction activities without disrupting existing railway services.