MoS V. Somanna Inspects Redevelopment Works at Bhubaneswar Railway Station under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

Bhubaneswar: V. Somanna, Hon’ble Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, visited Bhubaneswar railway station today to review the progress of redevelopment work being carried out under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The inspection reflects the government’s commitment to transforming railway infrastructure in Odisha in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of modernising stations across the country.

Highlighting the unprecedented financial support to the state’s railway sector, Somanna said Odisha is receiving a 12.5-fold increase in railway budget allocations under the Modi government. In the Union Budget 2025, ₹10,599 crore was earmarked for railway development in Odisha, a sharp rise from the ₹838 crore allocated during the 2009–2014 period.

The Minister informed that 59 railway stations in Odisha are currently undergoing redevelopment with a total investment of ₹2,379 crore. In addition, sanctioned railway projects worth over ₹80,000 crore are under execution in the state. Over the last year alone, more than ₹25,000 crore has been approved for eight new railway lines, multitracking works, and flyover construction.

During the inspection, Somanna expressed satisfaction with the pace of redevelopment at Bhubaneswar station. He noted that the project is progressing well and will provide world-class amenities for passengers. The station’s makeover includes construction of an elevated approach road to streamline the flow of passengers, separate entry and exit points, and improved connectivity.

The revamped station will feature modern facilities such as enhanced station access, spacious circulating areas, upgraded waiting halls, clean and well-maintained toilets, lifts and escalators, and executive lounges. Special amenities for Divyangjans, sustainable and eco-friendly designs, improved signage and passenger information systems, and stalls for local products under the ‘One Station One Product’ initiative are also part of the plan. Space will also be reserved for commercial development and landscaping to improve the station’s aesthetics.

Parmeshwar Funkwal, General Manager of East Coast Railway, along with other senior officials, accompanied the Minister during the site visit. The inspection reinforced the government’s emphasis on delivering quality infrastructure and better travel experiences for rail passengers across the region.