Bhubaneswar, : In a significant stride towards modernizing railway infrastructure and boosting regional development, the Indian Railways has undertaken the redevelopment of several railway stations in Western Odisha under the Amrit Station Scheme. The initiative aims to transform key stations with world-class amenities, improved connectivity, and sustainable design—enhancing passenger experience and stimulating local economies.
As part of this ambitious plan, major railway stations such as Rourkela, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Balangir, Titlagarh, Rajgangpur, and many others will be redeveloped with modern facilities, eco-friendly infrastructure, and state-of-the-art services.
Key Features of the Redevelopment Initiative:
- Modern Infrastructure: Upgraded station buildings, improved platform surfaces, enhanced waiting areas, and digital ticketing counters.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Foot Over Bridges (FOBs) with lifts and escalators to support senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and families.
- Green Design: Adoption of eco-friendly features like solar panels, water recycling systems, and efficient waste management.
- Passenger Amenities: Wi-Fi connectivity, digital signage, advanced security systems, modern lounges, and improved catering services.
- Improved Circulating Areas: New pick-up/drop-off lanes and parking areas to decongest station premises.
- Economic Development: The upgraded infrastructure is expected to boost tourism, generate employment, and facilitate smoother trade and travel across the region.
Station-Wise Redevelopment Highlights:
- Jharsuguda Road (₹18.77 Cr): Modern amenities, 12-meter wide FOB, lifts, upgraded platforms, digital signage, and Divyangjan-friendly facilities.
- Brajarajnagar: Artistic upgrades including terracotta cladding, murals, a Konark Chakra sculpture, improved landscaping, and passenger areas.
- Belpahar: Comprehensive redevelopment with digital signage, facade improvements, murals, modern toilets, parking space, and platform upgrades.
- Sambalpur City (₹23.76 Cr): FOB, platform improvements, lifts, platform shelters, digital signage, and Divyangjan facilities.
- Khariar Road (₹16.25 Cr): New station building, second entry development, digital clocks, signage, lifts, and modern toilets.
- Hirakud (₹22.87 Cr): Wide FOB, lifts, platform shelters, coach indication boards, and upgraded toilets.
- Kesinga (₹20.85 Cr): Major platform enhancements, 38-bay shelters, FOB, lifts, and sustainable amenities.
- Bargarh Road (₹23.84 Cr): Extensive upgrades with 12-meter wide FOB, 15-bay platform shelter, and modernized infrastructure.
- Barpali (₹20.88 Cr): Platform shelters, FOB, coach indication boards, and improved toilets.
- Balangir (₹18.01 Cr): New station building, platform and waiting room upgrades, sewage treatment plant, and expanded parking.
- Titlagarh (₹35.79 Cr): FOB, lifts, waiting halls, sewage plant, parking space, and 20-bay platform shelters.
- Kantabanji (₹33.87 Cr): Second entry point, 22-bay shelters, sewage plant, lifts, and raised platforms.
- Harishankar Road (₹16.66 Cr): Additional FOB, three lifts, and major platform and signage improvements.
- Bhawanipatna (₹18.83 Cr): Platform elevation, shelter, lift, modern toilets, and signage.
- Bimalagarh (₹9.69 Cr): Soft upgrades with Divyangjan facilities, facade improvements, and shelter upgrades.
- Rajgangpur (₹37.65 Cr): FOB with escalators, lifts, artistic facade, enhanced shelters, and modern passenger facilities.
- Panposh (₹14.22 Cr): Two lifts, improved platforms, additional shelters, and upgraded toilets.
Additionally, redevelopment proposals and planning are underway for stations at Jharsuguda, Himgiri, Rourkela, and Sambalpur, with a focus on passenger convenience and smart station design. These stations will feature FOBs, escalators, parking zones, modern signage, and green infrastructure
With redevelopment projects set to be implemented in phases over the next few years, the transformation of railway stations in Western Odisha is expected to redefine travel experiences across the state. The integration of heritage-inspired architecture with modern facilities will not only cater to passenger needs but also help preserve Odisha’s rich cultural identity.
