In an effort to enhance the passenger experience and modernize its services, the Ministry of Railways, Government of India, has embarked on an ambitious initiative called the Adarsh Station Scheme. This scheme is focused on upgrading suburban railway stations across the country, transforming them into model, or “Adarsh” stations. The driving force behind this project is a responsive and carefully strategized selection process which identifies railway stations in dire need of improved amenities and infrastructural updates.
Key Features of an ‘Adarsh’ Station
An Adarsh Station, as envisioned by the Ministry of Railways, will present a blend of beauty and utility. The substantial development plan includes specific improvements to ensure ease of travel and a pleasant environment for passengers. The key features of an upgraded, Adarsh station include:
* A facelift to the station building, making it more appealing and aesthetically pleasing.
* Streamlined traffic flow within and around the station premises to reduce congestion.
* Enhanced platform surfaces for safe and comfortable movement.
* An upgrade of existing waiting halls and retiring rooms offering comfort and convenience to passengers.
* Improved toilet facilities ensuring cleanliness and hygiene.
* The installation of foot overbridges, lifts, and escalators for accessible and efficient inter-platform movement.
The scheme mandates close monitoring of the upgradation process by the Indian Government and the Indian Railways to ensure quality control and timely completion.
Station Redevelopment Program
The Ministry of Railways isn’t limiting its vision to just the Adarsh Station Scheme. In accordance with its broader objectives, a separate policy – the Station Redevelopment Program – has been formulated. The programme is aimed at complete transformation of select railway stations across the country in phases.
The Role of Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation Limited (IRSDC)
Spearheading the Station Redevelopment Program is the Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation Limited (IRSDC), in conjunction with other Government agencies. These entities are responsible for conducting a techno-economic feasibility study, based on which stations are earmarked for redevelopment. Priority is given to stations located in major cities, important tourist destinations, and pilgrimage centres.
Quick Facts About Adarsh Station Scheme
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Responsible authority | Ministry of Railways, Government of India |
| Main objective | Upgrading suburban railway stations to Adarsh (Model) Stations |
| Key features | Facelift of station building, improved traffic flow, platform surface enhancement, upgrading waiting halls and retiring rooms, superior toilet facilities, provision of foot overbridges, lifts, and escalators |
| Monitoring body | Indian Government and Indian Railways |
Beyond Adarsh: The Station Redevelopment Program
The Station Redevelopment Program takes the vision of the Adarsh Station Scheme a step further. It is aimed at comprehensive redevelopment of railway stations with an emphasis on stations in major cities, pilgrimage centres, and crucial tourist destinations. For this, the IRSDC plays a pivotal role, taking operational responsibility for the techno-economic feasibility studies and leading redevelopment efforts.