Bhubaneswar, July 17 (UDN): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate seven redeveloped railway stations in Odisha on Friday as part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), a flagship initiative aimed at transforming railway stations into modern, passenger-centric transport hubs while preserving regional heritage.
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The seven upgraded stations—Bolangir, Barpali, Paralakhemundi, Talcher, Kesinga, Baripada, and Bimalgarh—have been redeveloped at a combined cost of ₹109 crore. The inauguration is part of a nationwide programme during which the Prime Minister will dedicate 75 modernised railway stations to the nation.
Modern Facilities for Better Passenger Experience
The redevelopment project has introduced a range of upgraded passenger amenities designed to enhance comfort, accessibility, and operational efficiency. The stations now feature modern station buildings, wider entry and exit points, spacious circulating areas, improved platform shelters, waiting halls, clean sanitation facilities, digital passenger information systems, and enhanced lighting.
To ensure inclusive access, the stations have been equipped with lifts, 12-metre-wide foot overbridges, and other facilities to assist senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and passengers with reduced mobility. Parking areas have also been redesigned to improve traffic movement and reduce congestion.
Showcasing Odisha’s Cultural Identity
A defining feature of the redevelopment is the integration of Odisha’s rich cultural and architectural heritage into the station design. Decorative elements inspired by the state’s traditional handloom, tribal art, indigenous crafts, and local architectural styles have been incorporated to create stations that reflect the unique identity of their respective regions.
Officials said the initiative seeks to make railway stations not only transport hubs but also cultural landmarks that offer visitors a glimpse of Odisha’s artistic legacy.
Boost to Connectivity and Regional Growth
The upgraded stations are expected to improve rail connectivity, facilitate smoother passenger movement, and support economic development in their surrounding regions. Enhanced railway infrastructure is also likely to promote tourism, encourage local business opportunities, and generate employment during both the construction and operational phases.
The redevelopment has been carried out under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, a long-term programme of the Ministry of Railways focused on modernising stations across the country with sustainable infrastructure, improved passenger amenities, and better multimodal integration.
With the inauguration of the seven stations, Odisha takes another step toward strengthening its rail network and providing safer, more accessible, and world-class travel facilities for millions of passengers.